Lenzing Tops Canopy’s Globally Renowned “Hot Button Ranking” 2022

LENZING, Austria— November 17, 2022 — The Lenzing Group, the world’s leading supplier of sustainably produced specialty fibers, achieved first place in the “Hot Button Ranking” of the Canadian non-profit organization Canopy, thus confirming its leading role in the areas of sustainability and responsible wood and pulp sourcing. Lenzing can also once again celebrate a dark green shirt, synonymous with the highest category.

In this ranking, which receives a lot of attention in the textile and apparel industry, Canopy evaluates the world’s 34 largest producers of cellulosic fibers in terms of their sustainable wood and pulp sourcing, their efforts with regard to the use of alternative raw materials and their achievements in the protection of ancient and endangered forests. Resource preservation is a key element of Lenzing’s corporate strategy and at the core of its innovation agenda. The sustainable production of TENCEL™, VEOCEL™ and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ branded specialty fibers is based on these principles.

“We are very pleased that the steps we are taking as the Lenzing Group to continuously improve and find solutions to the most pressing problems of our time are being seen and honored,” said Robert van de Kerkhof, chief commercial officer, Fiber, of the Lenzing Group. “We are working hard to make our industries even more sustainable and to drive the transformation of the textile business model from linear to circular. Further efforts from the entire industry are needed for this transformation to take place,” van de Kerkhof said.

Efficient use of resources

Wood and the pulp derived from it are the most important raw materials for the sustainable production of cellulosicfibers from Lenzing. The Lenzing Group assumes responsibility by striving for sustainable procurement based on environmental certificates and responsible and efficient use of these valuable resources. Lenzing sources wood and dissolving pulp from sustainably managed forests and plantations and not from ancient, protected or endangered forests.

Promoting the circular economy

With its REFIBRA™ and Eco Cycle technologies, Lenzing offers solutions for transforming the textile and nonwovens industries towards a circular economy. In line with its vision for the circular economy, “We give waste a new life. Every day.” Lenzing is driving the industry toward a full circular economy by striving to give waste a new life in all aspects of its core business and developing circular solutions together with potential partners inside and outside the current value chain. A milestone on this path is the cooperation with the Swedish pulp producer Södra. The two global market leaders, who have been proactively promoting the circular economy in the fashion industry for many years, are joining forces to give the topic a further boost and make a decisive contribution to solving the global textile waste problem by making fibers from post-consumer textiles.

Today, Lenzing offers lyocell fibers made from 30 percent recycled cotton waste. The company aims to launchlyocell, modal and viscose staple fibers with up to 50 percent recycled post-consumer content on a commercial scale by 2025 and to develop a new circular business model by closing the loops for post-consumer waste. By 2025, the company plans to enter into further partnerships with 25 key supply chain companies, which again exemplifies Lenzing’s ambitious path in climate protection and the circular economy.

Posted: November 17, 2022

Source: The Lenzing Group

Climate Impact Mapping Of Swedish Textile Machinery

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — November 17, 2022 — Over the past year, TMAS, the Swedish Textile Machinery Association, has been working with ClimatePartner on a corporate carbon footprint (CCF) mapping project with its member companies, as a natural step towards supporting a more sustainable textile industry.

Over half of the members of TMAS are participating in the project, which involves calculating each operation’s Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions in order to identify the current climate impact and areas where reductions can be made.

“Integrating climate action into strategies is becoming increasingly important in Europe and we have decided to take a pro-active role,” said TMAS secretary general Therese Premler-Andersson. “There is growing pressure from customers to be more transparent in this area and forthcoming legislation will soon make it necessary for all to take climate actions. TMAS members, however, recognize the benefit of taking action now, not least in terms of taking responsibility and demonstrating credibility.”

The CCF project’s scope examines all aspects of a business split into five areas:

  • Facility Management (heating, electricity, water, cooling agents and waste disposal);
  • Employee Mobility (commuting and company cars);
  • Business Travel (flights travel by train, rental cars);
  • Procurement (production, packaging and office materials); and
  • Logistics (inbound and outbound).

Primary data is being used wherever possible and emission factors originate from internationally recognized databases such as ecoinvent and GEMIS.

“Each company is very different in terms of size, structure and operations, but they share common goals in the design and production of textile machinery that is flexible and highly automated, and wherever possible enables savings in energy, water and chemicals consumption,” Premler-Andersson said. “The textile industry has become highly globalized over many decades and will benefit greatly from the close examination of practices and supply chains. The Covid-19 pandemic led to many new ideas about how to do things differently, out of necessity. It saw the introduction of new and innovative digital tools and remote services that are here to stay, and will have important roles to play going forward.

The ClimatePartner measurement program is based on the guidelines of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard (GHG Protocol), and factors in all greenhouse gases covered by the Kyoto Protocol. These are carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFC), perfluorocarbons (PFC), sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) and nitrogen trifluoride (NF₃).

Each of these gases affect the atmosphere differently and remain in the atmosphere for different lengths of time. Rather than reporting on each gas separately, they are expressed as a CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) for the sake of simplicity. A CO₂e is essentially a conversion into a ‘global warming potential’ value that enables the influence of different gases on global warming to be compared.

“The work does not end here — on the contrary, now when we are recognizing our current practices, our work to reduce emissions in an efficient way will continue,” Premler-Andersson concluded.

The Textile Machinery Association of Sweden (TMAS) comprises the leading Swedish companies with textile technology, automation and production processes. The expertise of its members ranges from advanced systems for yarn fault detection and tension monitoring, to yarn feeding technology for weaving, automated sewing production lines, cutting machines, embroidery technology, effective material handling systems, spray application system for fabric finishing and much more.

Posted: November 17, 2022

Source: TMAS, the Swedish Textile Machinery Association

Plastics Machinery Shipments: In Sync With Slower Economy, Up From 2021

WASHINGTON — November 17, 2022 — The shipments of primary plastics machinery (injection molding and extrusion) in North America slowed in the third quarter according to the statistics compiled and reported by the Plastics Industry Association’s (PLASTICS) Committee on Equipment Statistics (CES).

The preliminary estimate of shipment value from reporting companies totaled $353.8 million in the third quarter of 2022. While this is a decrease of 14.4 percent from the previous quarter, the estimate increased by 6.0 percent from a year earlier. Of the three primary plastics type of machinery, the value of injection molding shipments fell 17.1 percemt in the third quarter. Shipments of single-and twin-screw extruders rose by 4.9 percent and 12.4 percent, respectively, in the third quarter. Compared to the third quarter last year, shipments of single-screw extruders fell by 13.1 percent while shipments of twin-screw extruders rose by 19.3 percent.

“It can be argued that the slowdown in plastics machinery shipment in the third quarter is in sync with the cooling of the U.S. economy. However, compared to the quarterly shipments in 2021 — a stellar year for the plastics industry particularly for plastics equipment suppliers — this year’s third quarter shipments remain above the first three quarters’ shipments last year,” stated Dr. Perc Pineda, PLASTICS chief economic officer. “Historically, there is a bump up in shipments in the fourth quarter. This was the case even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Given supply chain issues due to the pandemic, which have stretched delivery lead time, it would not be surprising to see shipments in the fourth quarter to be above the third quarter. There is also a huge year-end push for businesses to get their manufacturing capacity in gear for the coming year. This should support stable demand for plastics equipment next year, albeit lower than this year because of moderating economic growth”concluded Pineda.

The CES also conducts a quarterly survey of plastics machinery suppliers that asks about present market conditions and expectations for the future. The outlook of the survey participants, particularly for the next 12 months, has not changed significantly. While 31.3 percent of the survey respondents expect market conditions to either improve or hold steady in the next quarter, 34.4 percent expect market conditions to be steady-to-better, which was marginally lower than the 35.0 percent in the second quarter’s survey results. “The outlook for the next 12 months virtually unchanged from the second suggests that plastics equipment suppliers have considered slower economic growth ahead and have not strategized accordingly for the 2023,” said Pineda.

Plastics machinery exports decreased by 10.2 percent to $198.8 million in the third quarter. Mexico and Canada remained the top export markets of plastics machinery from the U.S. in the third quarter. The combined exports to USMCA partners totaled $109.7 million, which was 65.9 percent of total plastics machinery exports of the U.S. Imports decreased by 12.1 percent to $423.6 million in the third quarter. U.S. plastics machinery trade deficit narrowed from $260.7 million in the second quarter to $224.7 million in the third quarter. Moderating global economic growth and a strong U.S. dollar is slowing plastics machinery trade.

“In sum, the third quarter data is consistent with the projected growth in plastics machinery shipments for the second half of 2022. However, the U.S. manufacturing sector continues to face headwinds — elevated energy prices, rising interest rates, and inflation — which could weigh on the economy’s manufacturing output in 2023,” said Pineda.

Posted: November 17, 2022

Source: Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS)

Global Apparel Company, Komar Brands, To Build Manufacturing, Distribution Facility In Bryan County, Georgia

ATLANTA — November 14, 2022 — Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced that Komar Brands, a global apparel company, will create 294 new jobs and invest $87 million in a new manufacturing and distribution facility in Bryan County.

“Georgia’s world-class ports and infrastructure are a key reason why companies choose to bring their operations to this No. 1 state for business,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “You can truly make anything and reach markets all around the world from here. I look forward to both Komar’s success in Georgia and the opportunities they will bring to hardworking people in Bryan County.”

Established in 1908, Komar is an industry leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of sleepwear, intimates, kids, and layering apparel brands. The company manages a diverse portfolio of owned, licensed, and private-label brands. Interested individuals can learn more about Komar at www.komarbrands.com/careers.

“Komar is pleased to be partnering with Georgia to establish this new manufacturing and distribution center, which is an important part of our strategic vision,” said Charlie Komar, president and CEO of Komar. “We are looking forward to breaking ground in the very near future and appreciate all the assistance and cooperation to make this project come to fruition.”

Komar’s new facility will be located at Interstate Centre 3, a Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) Certified site. To earn a GRAD program certification, a property must undergo due diligence and complete specific certification requirements prior to a visit by a prospective business. Completing the GRAD certification program with the Georgia Department of Economic Development is a proactive way both community planners and landowners can help catalyze economic growth and industrial development for the regions they serve.

“Komar is a welcome addition to our existing industry base in Bryan County,” said Development Authority of Bryan County Chairman Jon Seagraves. “Our staff sourced this lead at the Georgia Port Authority’s Georgia Foreign Trade Conference three years ago, and we are excited that the work done over the last several years has resulted in such a great project.”

Regional Project Manager Dorie Bacon represented the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team on this competitive project in partnership with Development Authority of Bryan County, Georgia Ports Authority, and Georgia Quick Start.

“We’re excited to welcome a well-established company like Komar to Georgia, and we look forward to a long-lasting relationship between the company and community,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Our consistent economic policy and dedication to speed-to-market solutions have made Georgia a dynamic place to grow. We’re grateful for the strong partnerships between our local communities and the Georgia Ports Authority that make doing business in Georgia easier for companies like Komar.”

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Georgia Office of the Governor

Innovate. First. – PRIMO. INNOVARE. – First In-Person And Virtual Pacific Northwest Event Focused On Italian Innovation

SEATTLE — November 16, 2022 — Today, in the Crystal Room at the Washington Athletic Club (WAC) in downtown Seattle, the General Consul of Italy in San Francisco, Sergio Strozzi, will kick off the first-ever in-person event focused on highlighting Italian innovation and the Italian startup ecosystem.

More than 70 accredited investors and twenty venture funds, together with business leaders from Amazon and Microsoft, and other selected companies and trade organizations in Washington State are registered to attend. An open metaverse-inspired virtual event experience is now live and will be updated with all the content from the event. The virtual event experience is available now and free for everyone to access and enjoy at www.primoinnovare.org.

The event will feature a panel focused on: “Building Bridges and Connecting Innovation Communities.” The panel will feature: John Cook, Co-Founder and Publisher of Geekwire, Microsoft’s Director of Startup Programs, Tom Davis, former CEO of Solair, an Italian startup acquired by Microsoft Corporation, Amazon’s Marcello Majonchi, former Chief Product Officer of Solair and now Amazon’s GM of AWS EBS Edge, and Martina Welkhoff, Managing Partner VXR Venture Fund.

The event will showcase ten of the most innovative Italian startups. Each one will pitch for five minutes. After the pitch, each startup is paired with a carefully selected wine from Italy and from the Pacific Northwest. Attendees will enjoy a curated wine-tasting experience accompanied by tasty appetizers.

As a G7 country, Italy is already a key innovation player in Europe and in the ever more strategic Mediterranean area. Italy is increasingly attracting private investments from the USA. For the first time, Italy is represented on the west coast with a physical innovation and culture center, promoted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through ITA (Italian Trade Agency) and supervised by the Consulate General and the Embassy of Italy in Washington: INNOVIT located in downtown San Francisco is now open for business. Corporate partners, startups, VCs, scientific research and international cooperation organizations are all welcome to visit and engage with it.

“Italy’s innovation ecosystem is growing, now leveraging the resources allocated by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan with more than 200 BLN Euros (the largest in the EU) and on investments in technology, such as the new Leonardo supercomputer, which will be inaugurated in Bologna on November 24th of this year. The goal of the PRIMO. INNOVARE. event is to inform and strengthen the relationship in this crucial field between the West Coast of the USA and Italy. Our long-lasting partnership is based on common values including a real passion for innovation, merit-based entrepreneurship, and the long-lasting solid friendship between our two Countries. Let’s join forces now and bring meaningful, innovative solutions to market to solve real problems, and boost the partnership and economic relations between Italy and the amazing business leaders, and investors in the great State of Washington.” – Sergio Strozzi, General Consul of Italy, San Francisco.

Under the leadership of Fabrizio Rovatti and Area Science Park Innovation Factory, and Serena, a local 501.c.3 Private Operating Foundation, you will be able to enjoy learning about some of the best examples of Italian ingenuity and innovation.

If interested in learning more please visit www.serenacorp.org and www.primoinnovare.org or email: info@serenacorp.org if interested in receiving an invite please contact primo@serenacorp.org.

Geekwire, our media partner, will host videos of all presentations on its YouTube channel after the event. Below you will find a brief description of each one of the Italian startups featured at the event:

  • 221e – Intelligent Precision Sensing. Artificial intelligence can add substantial value to your product. So can sensor fusion. 221e’s sensor fusion AI technology, combines the two, unlocks critical real-time insights using machine learning of multi-sensor data.
  • CAEMate – Engineering Software company developing disruptive technologies for Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance of Infrastructures (pipelines, bridges, viaducts, tunnels, slopes, buildings, eolic towers, etc.). Its unique cloud-based platform WeStatiX SHM enables the creation of Digital Twins of Infrastructure, which are automatically and continuously updated with data measured by any type of sensor installed on the asset.
  • Contents – Generative AI Solutions for Content Creation. Contents.com platform is a unique gateway to support any company throughout the whole content workflow, from ideation, through creation, to transformation. A solution powered by Generative AI tools trained on multi-language proprietary datasets.
  • ML Cube – AD cube is an AI-based platform that maximizes the return on the investment on digital advertising spend. AD cube is the first fully automatized AI tool able to optimize adv campaigns across the whole marketing funnel.
  • MYWAI – Equipment as a Service (EaaS) platform provider using Edge AI for building and delivering Intelligent Services at the very edge of Industry 4, Medical & Smart Cities equipment. MYWAI has developed a patented technology blending Edge AI, chip-based neural networks, and blockchain to deliver and certify innovative technical (e.g. Predictive Maintenance) and non-technical (e.g. Pay per Use, Pay per Outcome, Pay per Event) service models directly at the edge of Industrial, Medical and Smart Cities Equipment.
  • Omnia BPM simplifies and accelerates production and innovation in enterprise software. The only low- code Application platform which combines a powerful BPM with many unique, intelligent features to achieve the shortest Time-To-Market, including many powerful “Smart Apps”: ready-to-use apps, that can be creatively combined, like lego bricks, for unlimited innovation.
  • Screevo is the Voice Assistant that saves deskless workers from data entry into any software systems. Screevo offers an offline, edge and AI-powered voice assistant capable of adapting to any process with a no-code web platform to manage the conversations configuration.
  • Tolemaica – if it exists you can certify it. Tolemaica instantly and automatically certifies any data stream (photos, audio, video, digital contract, etc.) with legal value by smartphones and other devices such as drones, action cameras, satellites, scanners, etc.
  • Winedering enables travelers find the perfect wine experience all over the world and assist boutique wineries to be visible online. Winedering created a search engine optimization process helping wineries be visible online.

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Thomas Public Relations, Inc.

Texworld Evolution Unveils New Trends For Spring/Summer 2024

NEW YORK CITY — November 15, 2022 — An attendee favorite, the Texworld Trend Showcase returns to the show floor with the latest material innovations and color palettes for the Spring/Summer 2024 season, curated by New York-based agency, Doneger | TOBE. Along with spearheading the design for the showcase, Creative Director Kai Chow will offer insight into the four unique themes surrounding his vision during a one-day only seminar and Explore the Floor tour of the trend showcase on Wednesday, February 1. Chow will provide attendees with a deeper understanding of the encompassing theme of ‘SOBRIETY’: “We usher in the dawn of a new state of mind, a collective shift in the ways we live, think, and create. Seeking seamlessness in both life and design, we prioritize body and mind. Now we see value in nature, and we find abundance in simplicity. Innovation goes beyond the ordinary, blending the organic with the human-centric. No longer are we simply recycling the past, we are now reinventing the future.”

Aligning with the growth of Texworld Evolution, footwear components and print designs from both co-located partnership shows, Global Footwear Sourcing and Printsource, will be highlighted within the Trend Showcase. Attendees can find the latest technology trends fueling innovation within the footwear industry as well as take advantage of educational seminars hosted by the FDRA (Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America). Gary Raines, Chief Economist at the FDRA will be covering niche topics from sustainable sourcing to the latest material developments.

Debuting at Printsource, Nicki Gondell, founder of Trend House, will take you on a journey through Milan based agency, MOODsign’s S/S 2024 color and print trends. Discover rustic beauty of Harmony, the wild earthiness of Rebirth, the sinuous seduction of Underwater, the sensorial immersion of Tropical Lush and the optimistic playfulness of Color Me Happy in her one day only seminar on Tuesday, January 31.

“We are thrilled to welcome Printsource to the show floor. This partnership brings not only expanded product offerings but also additional educational and networking opportunities to buyers including new specialty trend segments within our mainstay Texworld Trend Showcase” comments, Jennifer Bacon, Vice President, Fashion and Apparel Shows, Messe Frankfurt.

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Messe Frankfurt North America

The LYCRA Co. And HeiQ Introduce New Lycra® naturalFX™ Technology That Offers Durable Comfort Stretch And Fit For 100% Cotton Knitwear

WILMINGTON, Del. — November 15, 2022 — The LYCRA Co., a global developer of innovative and sustainable fiber and technology solutions for the apparel and personal care industries, today announced the launch of LYCRA® naturalFX™ technology, a proprietary textile finishing process for 100-percent cotton knit garments designed for mass market applications. Developed in collaboration with HeiQ, a supplier of performance finish technologies, this application is the latest example of both companies’ ongoing efforts to bring more innovative and sustainable textile technologies to consumers worldwide.

LYCRA naturalFX technology, powered by HeiQ, enhances cotton knitwear, addressing critical consumer pain points, and improving the consumer’s overall wearing experience. This technology provides durable comfort stretch, fit, and soft hand-feel to 100-percent cotton knitwear compared to conventional finishes.

Even after repeated washing and wearing, LYCRA naturalFX technology helps knitwear retain its shape, which helps extend the garment’s lifespan and potentially reduce its environmental impact.

“LYCRA naturalFX technology enhances the stretch and recovery properties of cotton knit fabrics and does so in a durable way with outstandingly soft hand,” said Nicolas Banyols, chief commercial officer at The LYCRA Co. “This breakthrough innovation not only improves the performance of everyday 100-percent cotton knitwear but is easy for mills to implement as it requires no investment in new equipment. We value HeiQ’s technical expertise and are excited to collaborate on the commercialization of this technology.”

All knits that use LYCRA naturalFX technology can be submitted to The LYCRA Co.’s labs for quality control testing to ensure all consumer benefits are delivered, including comfort stretch, breathability, and durable fit. New logos will feature both the LYCRA and HeiQ brands and will be supported by customizable co-branded POS materials featuring the tagline, “In Sync with Nature’s Rhythm,” which are also available to brands and retailers.

While The LYCRA Co. is leading the commercialization of this technology, HeiQ will collaborate and support the introduction through their brand network as well as manufacturing and selling the finishing directly to textile mills, leveraging their established global technical services to deliver optimized performance.

“Combining The LYCRA Company’s expertise in stretch fibers with HeiQ’s renowned innovation in textile chemical finishing has resulted in a truly unique, added-value technology that offers enhanced performance to cotton knitwear,” added Mike Mordente, head of the business unit textiles at HeiQ. “I am confident that LYCRA naturalFX technology will open up a new generation of enhanced stretch and recovery garments with comfort and durability.”

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: The LYCRA Co.

Medline And Hologenix Launch New Curad Performance Series Offering Powered By CELLIANT

LOS ANGELES — November 15, 2022 — Medline, a leading medical product distributor and manufacturer, together with Hologenix®, a materials science innovator, launched a new line of CURAD® Performance Series® orthopedic products powered by CELLIANT® infrared technology.

Celliant, the flagship innovation of Hologenix, is a proprietary blend of natural minerals that allows textiles to convert body heat into infrared energy, returning it to the body and temporarily increasing local blood flow and cellular oxygenation. This has been clinically demonstrated to support recovery from physical activity and fatigue, increase endurance and stamina, and boost overall performance in healthy individuals, among other benefits.

“We are very excited about the integration of Celliant technology into our time-honored Curad brand,” said Sarah Cooper, senior manager, Product Management at Medline. “This partnership with Hologenix confirms our commitment to expand the use of infrared in our orthopedic soft goods market, where we believe it has great potential.”

Trusted by athletes, Curad is the Official Medical Supplier of the IRONMAN® U.S. Series. The new orthopedic products powered by Celliant infrared technology are the latest additions to the Curad Performance Series collection and include the following:

  • Infrared Ankle Supports, Elastic, in Large/X-Large and Small/Medium sizes;
  • Infrared Knee Supports, Elastic, in Large/X-Large and Small/Medium sizes;
  • Infrared Back Supports, Hot/Cold;
  • Infrared Shoulder Supports, Hot/Cold;
  • Infrared Knee Supports, Hot/Cold; and
  • Infrared Multipurpose Supports, Hot/Cold.

“This new Curad Performance Series offering represents a major expansion of Celliant infrared (IR) bio-responsive textiles into the sports medicine field,” said Seth Casden, Hologenix co-founder and CEO. “We are honored to partner with Medline and look forward to future introductions.”

In addition to the inclusion of Celliant infrared technology, Medline has engineered the elastic supports to provide targeted compression for enhanced local circulation that helps reduce swelling, with a contoured fit that won’t slip or shift during normal activities with silicone grips that keep the product in place.

The removable hot/cold therapy supports provide adjustable compression and a gel compress that can be cooled or heated to further reduce swelling and discomfort.

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Hologenix LLC

Renewcell And Eastman Sign Letter Of Intent For Development Of Textile-To-Textile Recycled Yarns

STOCKHOLM, Sweden — November 15, 2022 — The Swedish textile-to-textile recycling pioneer Renewcell has signed a Letter of Intent with Eastman, a cellulosic acetate fiber producer, for a collaboration to develop Naia™ Renew ES yarns sourced from Circulose®, Renewcell’s 100-percent recycled textile raw material. The agreement is Renewcell’s first with a US-based fiber producer and an important step in developing the first acetate-based applications to use Circulose feedstock.

”Eastman considering Circulose as a feedstock in the production of a premium yarn like Naia Renew reflects very well on the Renewcell team’s ability to work with partners to adjust and optimize our product for new fiber applications. This agreement signals an acceleration of our joint efforts to bring Naia Renew ES yarns derived from Circulose to market. I look forward to working alongside Eastman in making fashion circular,” commented Patrik Lundström, CEO of Renewcell.

Ruth Farell, general manager of Eastman Textiles, said: ”we are thrilled to collaborate with a pioneeer such as Renewcell to lower our reliance on virgin feedstocks, redefine the essence of textile waste and close the loop within the textiles industry. This collaboration is at the heart of our strategy to launch a portfolio of products with increased recycled content”

Circulose®

Circulose is a unique material for fashion that is 100 percent recycled, recyclable, biodegradable, and of virgin-equivalent quality. Circulose makes fashion circular.

It is a branded dissolving pulp made from 100-percent textile waste, like worn-out clothes and production scraps. It is used by fiber producers to make staple fiber or filament viscose, lyocell, modal, acetate or other types of man-made cellulosic fibers. Those fibers are then spun into yarns, woven or knitted into fabrics and finally made into new high-quality textile products.

Naia™ Renew

In 2019, Eastman began commercial-scale molecular recycling for a broad set of waste plastics that would otherwise be landfilled or incinerated, or worse, end up in the environment. Eastman’s Advanced Circular Recycling technologies process waste derived from a variety of sources, including single-use plastics, textiles, and carpet. These technologies provide a true circular solution of endless recycling for materials, allowing them to be reused repeatedly.

Naia cellulosic staple fiber, filament yarn and Naia Renew products provide the sustainable choices for fabrics used in ready-to-wear, sweaters, loungewear, and casual everyday wear. Naia is responsibly sourced from sustainably managed pine and eucalyptus forests. It is produced in a closed-loop manufacturing process that prioritizes the safe, environmentally-sound use of chemicals. Naia Renew is made from 60-percent sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40-percent certified* recycled waste plastics, creating value from hard-to-recycle materials that would be destined for landfills. Certified biodegradable and compostable, Naia Renew enables a measurably reduced carbon footprint over its life cycle.

*Naia Renew recycled content is achieved by allocation of recycled plastics using an ISCC-certified mass balance process. Naia Renew Enhanced Sustainability is the latest product launch with increased recycled content.

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Renewcell

Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Poised To Close Out Yorkville Convertible Debenture With Strongest Financial Position In Corporate History

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — November 15, 2022 — Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Inc., the biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of spider silk, announces that it has nearly closed out its $8 million in convertible debenture with Yorkville Advisors. Over the last 23 months, the company has converted more than 98 percet of this debt to equity. Kraig Labs remains in one of the strongest financial positions in the company’s history, with more than $4.5 million in liquid assets and a remaining debt balance to Yorkville of only $150,000.

The capital raised through this financing has been deployed in building out the company’s in-house production and laboratory facilities in Vietnam, expanding the capabilities and research focus of our US-based R&D center, and funding the company’s work with third party production partners to scale up spider silk production. Looking forward, the company expects to continue investing in the scale-up of production capacity, pioneering innovations in spider silk technologies, and bringing products to end markets through direct sales and strategic partnerships.

“Due to the significant progress that we made in securing our new production partnership program, which is designed to allow Kraig Labs to meet anticipated demand without the previous model’s intense capital investments, these funds provide us the flexibility that we need to continue to drive growth and strengthen our operations from R&D through finished products,” said company COO, Jon Rice.

“With more than $4.5 million of immediately deployable capital and having nearly eliminated the balance on this debit financing, Kraig Labs has never been in a stronger financial position. We will continue to strategically invest this capital in ramping production through our in-house capacity and partnership with our third-party contractor as well as launch the next generations of hybrid spider silk technologies,” Rice concluded.

Posted: November 15, 2022

Source: Kraig Biocraft Laboratories Inc.

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