With more than 270 members around the world, Edana is the leading global association and voice of the nonwovens and related industries.
F+S: Tell us more about Edana and why it runs FILTREX.
ML: Edana represents the nonwovens industry across multiple applications, including healthcare, hygiene, mobility, and industrial filtration. FILTREX is the flagship event for the filtration industry, providing a platform where professionals can discuss technological advancements, evolving regulations, and market dynamics.
Filtration plays an essential role in improving air quality, energy efficiency, and public health – all issues that are gaining increasing attention worldwide. Whether it’s indoor air quality (IAQ), air pollution control (APC), or industrial air purification, the demand for high-performance filtration solutions is growing. FILTREX exists to drive innovation and to ensure that businesses are well-equipped to meet regulatory requirements, energy efficiency standards and increase end-user awareness.
F+S: What are some of the key themes of this year’s FILTREX event?
ML: Sustainability is a central theme at this year’s FILTREX event, with a strong focus on reducing the environmental impact of filtration materials and filters, improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions. This also connects with the PFAS-free part of the program, which will be one of the key topics during the event.
Regulations and standards on indoor air quality are evolving, requiring the industry to adapt. New European guidelines will shape future filtration solutions. The event will explore air pollution control technologies, focusing on capturing fine particles, fumes, and exhaust more efficiently. Another key discussion will be the classification of filtration equipment by energy consumption, particularly through frameworks like Eurovent.
F+S: What are the main highlights of this year’s event?
ML: FILTREX is an innovation-driven event, and this year’s program reflects the rapid pace of development in filtration and the value it brings to society. Attendees can expect a strong line-up of expert speakers presenting the latest research on filtration media, with a focus on sustainability and efforts to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance. It will feature presentations on sustainability standards and testing methods that highlight the industry’s ongoing efforts.
In addition, the FILTREX Innovation Award will once again recognize groundbreaking advancements in filtration technology, and the exhibition area will provide a chance to see new solutions in action and connect directly with key players across the supply chain.
There will also be panels on the role of filtration in modern HVAC applications, including how air filtration technologies can help reduce exposure to chemicals, improve insulation, and address the growing concerns around the sick building syndrome.
F+S: Why should people attend FILTREX?
ML: Quite simply, because staying informed means staying competitive. FILTREX is a focused, high-level event where you won’t just hear about trends – you’ll hear from the people driving them. Whether you’re a material supplier, filter manufacturer, or end-user, you’ll gain practical insights into regulatory changes, emerging technologies, and new business opportunities. More than that, it’s an opportunity to build relationships, have insightful discussions and explore collaborations that can drive your business forward.
F+S: What is unique about this year‘s event?
ML: The industry is evolving, and FILTREX is evolving with it. This year’s event will reflect the increasing interest in air purification technologies, expanding the discussion beyond traditional filtration. More than ever, filtration is becoming part of a broader strategy for air cleaning, where systems are no longer just about ventilation but also about active purification.
A key focus this year will be on energy efficiency, particularly in relation to the classification of filters based on their power consumption and overall performance. With sustainability becoming a major priority, it is essential that filtration systems are designed to deliver high filtration efficiency whilst minimizing energy consumption. There will also be more opportunities for interactive discussions, allowing attendees to engage directly with experts and explore the business potential of new technologies in a more hands-on way.
F+S: What will Edana be showcasing at the event?
ML: Edana will present the latest insights on market trends, regulations, and sustainability in filtration. A key focus will be how filtration supports healthier indoor environments as buildings become more airtight. We will also discuss new solutions to maintain air quality, the latest indoor air quality regulations, and how companies can stay compliant. Sustainability will be high on the agenda, with discussions on reducing the environmental footprint of filtration while maintaining performance, including strategies to address the full lifecycle impact of filters and filtration materials.
F+S: Looking at the nonwovens market in general, what are some of the key trends and challenges facing the sector currently?
ML: The biggest shift in the filtration industry right now is the growing emphasis on sustainability. Whether through recyclability, lower energy consumption, or alternative raw materials, companies are looking for ways to make filtration more environmentally friendly without compromising filtration performance. At the same time, we are seeing increased regulation around air quality, emissions, and end-of-life disposal, which means that companies need to be proactive in adapting to new compliance requirements.
F+S: How is Edana helping its members address these trends and challenges?
ML: Edana supports its members by providing regulatory insights, technical expertise, and industry advocacy. We work closely with policymakers to ensure that the voice of the industry is heard in regulatory discussions, and we provide guidance to companies on how to adapt to new standards and sustainability requirements. Through events like FILTREX, we also create opportunities for knowledge exchange and collaboration, helping companies stay ahead of market trends and technological advancements.
Beyond policy and technical guidance, we also focus on market intelligence. Understanding where the industry is headed and what the major drivers of change are, is essential for businesses looking to innovate and expand. By offering detailed research and analysis, we help our members make informed strategic decisions that position them for long-term success.
F+S: Is there anything else you would like to add?
ML: Filtration may not always make headlines, but its role in health, safety, and sustainability has never been more important. The industry is moving fast, and FILTREX is where you get the insights, connections, and strategies to stay ahead. If you’re involved in filtration, this is the event you can’t afford to miss.
To find out more about FILTREX and view the full program, click here.
