Nylon

Nylon is a synthetic marvel prized for its strength, elasticity, and durability. However, this revolutionary fiber comes with a significant environmental cost, from its fossil fuel origins to its contribution to microplastic pollution.

The problems with conventional nylon include its origin in fossil fuels and its end-of-life fate as a non-biodegradable plastic. It sheds microplastics and its production releases potent greenhouse gases.

The most effective solution is textile-to-textile recycling, which creates a true closed-loop system for clothing. We champion brands that are investing in innovative technologies from companies like Samsara Eco and BASF to turn old clothes into new fibers. We also support recycled nylon from recovered ocean plastics from companies like NetPlus® and verified recycled content from brands like ECONYL®. We also see great promise in bio-based alternatives, like EVO® by Fulgar, which are made from renewable resources.

Nylon is a highly circular fiber if handled correctly. Its durability allows garments to last for decades, and through chemical recycling, it can be infinitely regenerated into new fiber, effectively creating a true closed-loop system for this valuable material.