The second EurAsian Geotextiles Symposium (EAGS) was held in Beijing, Nov. 18-19, attracting around 150 participants who enjoyed a productive two-day event exploring the latest technical developments and case studies in the geosynthetics sphere and exchanging best practices in standardization and sustainability.

Co-organized by the China Industrial Textiles Industry Association (CNITA) and EDANA, and supported by the International Geosynthetics Society (IGS) and the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI), the EAGS is a unique networking event attracting professionals from across the sector, from academic experts to manufacturers and equipment suppliers. A tabletop exhibition was also organized to showcase industry developments and facilitate interaction.

Standardization, sustainability and environmental protection were key themes at the event with many presentations illustrating how geosynthetics can provide solutions in these areas, including prevention and remediation of natural disasters.

Reflections on the event from participants was positive throughout, with great feedback on the mix and quality of expert insight and the many opportunities to meet industry peers. EAGS again confirmed its position as a unique must-attend event for professionals in this sector, reinforced this year thanks to the conjunction with the annual plenary meeting of ISO TC 221 on geosynthetics, allowing many to combine both events.

These positive sentiments were echoed by the organizers. “Industrial textiles, owing to the high technology, wide range of applications and large market potential, are becoming an important driving force for economic growth and transformation of China’s textile industry in the new era,” says Li Lingshen, president of CNITA.

Pierre Wiertz, general manager of EDANA, adds: “As experts know, geosynthetics help build bridges. The objective of this conference is also to connect professionals from across Eurasia, with the exchange of best practices illustrated by case studies, which further support the sustainable application of geosynthetics.”