In a groundbreaking collaboration, Finnish sustainable textile innovator Spinnova and Swedish textile recycling pioneer Renewcell are poised to redefine the fashion and textile industries. Together, they aim to commercialize a concept that breathes new life into textile waste by producing fiber without harmful chemicals, heralding a major stride towards a circular economy.
What sets this partnership apart is its focus on harnessing textile waste-based fiber without resorting to detrimental chemicals. Spinnova’s patented technology and Renewcell’s expertise in recycling cellulosic-rich textile waste culminate in a process that promises to revolutionize the fashion landscape.
The process begins with Renewcell, which recycles textiles rich in cellulose, such as cotton and viscose, into a biodegradable pulp known as Circulose. This pulp, entirely derived from recycled textiles, has traditionally been used to craft man-made cellulosic fibers like viscose. However, the game-changer lies in Spinnova’s technology, which allows Circulose to be spun into a fresh, biobased textile fiber without the need for harmful chemicals. This innovation not only tackles the escalating issue of textile waste but also sets new benchmarks for sustainable textile fiber production.
The fruits of their labor are already evident, as Spinnova has successfully transformed Circulose pulp into novel textile fibers. The initial batches of Spinnova fiber, exclusively fashioned from 100% Circulose, have been created for yarn and fabric development. These prototypes meld cotton and Circulose-based Spinnova fiber, setting the stage for a new era of eco-conscious fashion.
Ben Selby, Deputy CEO of Spinnova, underscores the industry’s dire need for fresh solutions and collaborative efforts across the supply chain. He envisions their partnership as an accelerator for the fashion industry’s transition towards a circular economy. Selby declares, “Developing our partnership with the skilled Renewcell team has been a great pleasure, and the first tests combining Renewcell’s material and Spinnova’s technology have been very promising.”
Renewcell’s CEO, Patrik Lundström, emphasizes that the textile industry is undergoing a monumental transformation, transitioning from a linear model to a circular economy. Such a metamorphosis necessitates innovative players and novel partnerships. Lundström eagerly anticipates the launch of their first collection, a testament to their combined ingenuity. He exclaims, “We can’t wait to launch the first collection made from Circulose using Spinnova’s unique fiber spinning technology.”
As of now, both companies are actively exploring avenues to scale textile-to-textile fiber production through potential partnerships. The duo envisions creating the inaugural consumer collection fashioned from Circulose-based Spinnova fiber. With their pioneering spirit and shared commitment to sustainability, Spinnova and Renewcell are set to rewrite the narrative of the fashion and textile industries, offering a beacon of hope for a more eco-conscious and circular future.
Fashion enthusiasts and environmentalists alike eagerly await the transformation this dynamic partnership promises, holding their breath for the unveiling of truly sustainable and innovative textile products set to debut by the end of 2024.