Klimahouse Prize 2023: We were recognized as a deep-tech upcycling company
In an era when environmental awareness has become paramount, sustainable architecture has taken on a leading role in the construction industry. The field of eco-sustainable architecture is undergoing rapid evolution, driven by the growing need for solutions that are in harmony with the environment. In this context, innovation plays a key role, prompting architects and engineers to experiment with new techniques, materials and technologies.
From March 8 to 11, Bolzano hosted Klimahouse, the trade show dedicated to energy efficiency and sustainability in the construction industry. The perfect place for those who believe in building well to live better.
The rationale behind the Klimahouse Prize
On March 10, Fiera Bolzano and the Polytechnic University of Milan announced the winners of the award dedicated to the most innovative and efficient companies in the sustainable construction sector.
We entered the “Startup” category, which is dedicated to emerging businesses capable of offering highly innovative products and services.
We are pleased to announce that we have won the Klimahouse Prize, as decided by the jury — chaired by Professor Niccolò Aste of the Politecnico di Milano — for the following reason:
Nazena is a deep-tech upcycling company that brings sustainability to the fashion industry by giving new life to textile waste through an innovative patented process. By recycling textile fibers, Nazena transforms industrial textile waste and used clothing into new products. A circular economy solution to drive innovation and sustainability in the fashion sector.
The Klimahouse Prize 2023 Jury
Alongside Professor Aste, the jury appointed for the selection phase consisted of experts in the energy-building-environment sector involved in research and development projects and internationally significant initiatives, such as Prof. Andrea Gasparella of the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Wolfram Sparber of the Institute of Renewable Energy at EURAC Research, Architect Ute Oberrauch, Studio Ute Oberrauch; Ulrich Klammsteiner, Technical Director of the CasaClima Agency; Engineer Oscar Stuffer, Solarraum; and the young under-35 jury member, Architect Chiara Lentini. Joining them was the special jury member for the Startup category, Stefano Dal Savio, Head of Tech Transfer Green – NOI Techpark. The startup finalists were selected by Niccolò Aste, Stefano Dal Savio, Eva Ogriseg, CEO of TBA – Tyrolean Business Angel Network, Luca Barbieri – blum.vision, Thomas Mur – Director of Fiera Bolzano, and Enrico Deluchi – General Manager of PoliHub.
What does the Klimahouse Prize mean to us?
This award is an important testament to the dedication we bring to our work. We would like to thank the Klimahouse team and the entire jury for giving us the opportunity to showcase our commitment to the circular economy, including in the field of sustainable architecture.
What do we do at Nazena?
The textile industry produces tons of textile waste and scraps, both during the production of clothing and after it has been used. At Nazena, we’re here to offer an innovative and sustainable solution to this problem. We want to reduce the textile industry’s environmental impact and promote the circular economy.
The name “Nazena” comes from the Japanese expression “Why not?”, which reflects the philosophy that guides us. Below you can watch an excerpt from the interview with our founder (min. 1’10”).
From Japanese philosophy to innovative packaging: our story
During a trip to Japan, Giulia De Rossi noticed the extreme attention paid to packaging. From that moment on, we began studying the issues of waste and recycling, searching for alternatives to plastic. With the help of engineer Marco Sinico, we developed the first Nazena product: a recyclable ice cream cup created by repurposing an old wool sweater. After numerous experiments, we found the right formula for our innovative fabric transformation process.
What we create: aesthetically beautiful and functional products
Our products, ranging from home goods to construction materials, are aesthetically beautiful because they retain the natural characteristics of the fabrics from which they are made. Furthermore, we work to preserve their thermal properties as well, making them ideal for use in construction. An important and virtuous aspect of our process is that the waste fabrics often come directly from our customers, creating a virtuous cycle of recycling within the companies themselves.
We offer a wide range of products: jewelry boxes, clothes hangers and wine bottle packaging.
