The document discusses the European Technology Platform for textiles, which aims to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the EU textiles and clothing industry through collaborative research and innovation. It has over 750 expert members from across Europe. One initiative is the establishment of 7 "flagship" projects focusing on using textiles to address societal challenges, including one on innovative textiles for marine applications and coastal protection. This flagship aims to increase textile material use in marine markets and identify promising applications through building consortia and seeking funding. Examples of regional clusters bringing together the textiles and marine sectors in research projects are also provided.