12/05/2026
On 6 May 2026, organized by the Textile Cluster Association (TTA) and the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy in Skopje, within the framework of the MISSION4WATER project, funded by the European Union, a workshop was successfully held at the faculty titled:
“Responsible Behaviour in the Fashion Industry in the Context of Microplastics”
The workshop was organized in cooperation with the academic staff of the Institute of Textile Engineering and attracted significant interest from students and professors, who actively participated in all segments of the event.
📌 Morning session – expert presentations
Natasha Sivevska (TTA) presented the MISSION4WATER project, its goals, and opportunities for engagement of the academic community and youth
Prof. Dr. Vesna Dimova addressed “Microplastics – small particles, big problem”, explaining their sources, distribution, and environmental impact
Prof. Dr. Lidija Georgieva presented modern sustainable practices in fashion design
Assistant Jovana Petkovska presented 3D printing using recycled filaments and its application in the textile industry during the visit to the INNO FAB laboratory.
📌 Afternoon session – practical work
Assistant Zorica Cvetkovska presented garment repair and maintenance as a key factor in extending product life cycles
An interactive workshop focused on responsible behaviour in the fashion industry and practical approaches to reducing environmental impact, where students worked on pieces of clothing under guidance and consultations with Prof. Dr. Lidija Georgieva.
📌 Panel discussion
Topics included:
the role of the textile industry in pollution reduction
aligning education with labour market needs
involving youth in innovative and sustainable initiatives
The multidisciplinary panel included experts from the Institute of Textile Engineering, Institute of Inorganic Technology, and Institute of Organic Technology – Food Technology and Biotechnology. Discussions covered micro-, meso-, and nanoplastic migration into food, microbiological aspects of pollutants, and the impact of industrial processing on soil and air, and was highlighted the complexity of the textile and apparel industry and the prospects for its sustainable development.All the professors gave very detailed info regarding the negative implications of the micro plastic in water and in food which is very important.
The workshop represents an important step toward strengthening cooperation between academia and industry, as well as encouraging the development of practical knowledge and innovative solutions for water protection and sustainable textile production.
Within the event Natasha Sivevska, Executive Director of the Textile Cluster Association (TTA), and the Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Dr. Igor Jordanov, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation between Textile Cluster Association (TTA) and the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy in Skopje.
The memorandum establishes a framework for cooperation on topics and activities of mutual interest, including joint organization and implementation of applied projects, mutual exchange of information, and the formation of expert teams for the development of scientific-research and applied projects. It also provides for the involvement of both parties in project activities of shared interest, facilitates access to industrial events, workshops, and real-world projects to enrich students’ learning experience, and promotes the exchange of knowledge, resources, and technical expertise between the Faculty and professionals from both institutions.
