In a groundbreaking collaboration, Finnish sustainable textile developer Spinnova and Swedish textile recycling innovator Renewcell have joined forces to propel the commercialization and scalability of a revolutionary production concept for textile waste-based fibers.
The innovative concept harnesses patented technology from both companies, facilitating the spinning of textile waste-based fibers into new, chemical-free fibers. Anticipating the launch of the first consumer products derived from this transformative fiber by the end of 2024, the collaboration focuses on utilizing Renewcell’s biodegradable pulp product, Circulose.
Circulose, crafted from cellulosic-rich textile waste like cotton and viscose, has traditionally been employed in producing man-made cellulosic fibers such as viscose. However, the collaboration with Spinnova marks a paradigm shift. By integrating Spinnova’s textile fiber production technology, the partners aim to eliminate harmful chemicals from the fiber spinning process, transforming Circulose into a new, bio-based textile fiber.
Successful testing has already been conducted by Spinnova, resulting in the production of initial batches of 100% Circulose-based Spinnova fiber for yarn and fabric development.
This collaboration between Spinnova and Renewcell signifies a significant stride towards combatting the escalating textile waste crisis in the fashion industry, establishing novel benchmarks for sustainable textile fiber production.
Ben Selby, Deputy CEO of Spinnova, commented, “The fashion and textile industry needs new solutions and collaboration across its supply chain, which makes this such an exciting partnership for us. Our goal is to accelerate the fashion industry’s transition to a circular economy and explore options to scale textile-to-textile fiber production.”