circular economy
Circular Economy: Policy Making for Traceability of Chemicals along Value Chains
In the EU Interreg project ECHT, actors along the textile value chain (H&M, LIST, Inditex, Puma, Team2, etc.) are convinced that the traceability of chemicals in their products is an essential prerequisite for meeting the objectives of the Sustainable Textiles Strategy. As part of the project, roadmaps for the implementation of chemicals traceability in the industry will be developed – complemented by a policy action plan.
PET Recycling with Enzymatic Technology
Developed by Carbios, a French biotechnology company that focuses on solutions for recycling plastics and textiles through enzymatic recycling technology. The process uses an enzyme capable of specifically depolymerizing the PET (polyethylene terephthalate) contained in various plastics or textiles.
Recycled Plastic Bottles and Coffee Grounds Yarns for Sportswear
Reflo is a sustainable fashion brand dedicated to transforming waste into high-performance sportswear. By repurposing recycled plastic bottles and coffee grounds, they produce yarns for fabrics that uphold rigorous environmental standards, including Bluesign, Oeko-Tex, U Trust, and Global Recycled Standards. The process involves collecting and washing single-use plastic bottles, which are then melted and spun into lightweight, flexible yarns designed for durability.
CMAP Technology for Plastics
Resinergy is developing an innovative, scalable, and environmentally efficient Continuous Microwave Assisted Pyrolysis (CMAP) technology that reduces fossil-fuel-based resource dependency.
UBQ™: Plastic Substitute Made From Household Waste
UBQ™ is a bio-based thermoplastic produced entirely from unsorted household waste, including organic materials and unrecyclable items. This innovative material can seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing processes, replacing oil-based resins across industries. By adopting UBQ™, manufacturers reduce landfill waste, lower the carbon footprint of their products, and contribute to a circular economy.
NOOSA™: Bio-Based Fibers and Yarns
NOOSA™ has developed a technology that manufactures textile fiber from corn, sugarcane, and wheat. The fibers are made from polylactic acid (PLA) derived from GMO-free crops and do not compete with the food industry. The protein from these feedstocks is redirected to food production, while NOOSA™ focuses on carbohydrates such as sugar and starch.
Eco-Friendly Leather Made From Fish Skin
ICTYOS, a French startup, combines traditional tanning techniques with an eco-responsible approach by transforming fish skins from the food industry into high-quality sea leather. The company selects premium fish skins from French agri-food partners and relies on local networks to minimize its carbon footprint and ensure supply traceability. By repurposing skins that would otherwise be discarded, ICTYOS promotes upcycling and utilizes vegetable tannins from leaves, roots, or fruits to minimize the impacts of deforestation.
Fabrics Made From CO2
Fairbrics, a French startup, is leading the charge in creating sustainable alternatives to traditional textiles. Their innovative process, which involves capturing CO2 from industrial sources and converting it into polyester fabric, is a beacon of hope for the fashion industry. By offering a more eco-friendly alternative, Fairbrics is not just reducing the industry’s reliance on fossil fuels but also inspiring a greener future.
Piňatex® by Ananas Anam
Ananas Anam is a UK company known for its innovative approach to sustainable materials. The company specializes in Piňatex®, a sustainable alternative to textiles made from pineapple leaf fibers. Piňatex® offers low impact textile solutions that helps brands and industries to reduce their emissions and achieve their climate and sustainability goals.