How Sustainable Textile Fiber Brand TENCEL Leads the Way in Versatility
02-03-2020
There is a whole lot more to fabric sustainability than natural versus synthetic. For most weighing up the options natural wins hands down in terms of biodegradability, fabric however, is made up of far more than just raw components alone.
From the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers to excessive water requirements, to the addition of dyes and toxic chemicals during processing. The list is endless and for those at the consumer end of the scale it makes those clothing options all the more confusing.
When it comes to textiles every single step needs to be considered. Not only for the benefit of the environment but also for those working with the material as well as those wearing it.
Today’s consumers are more demanding and require more from their apparel purchases than ever before. Textiles not only have to look good but feel good against the skin, react to bodily temperatures, perform, wash and last well. And, finally biodegrade and revert back to nature once its life cycle as a garment draws to an end.
Apparel diversity is another strand to consider and TENCEL™ branded fibers provide an excellent example of how fibers created from wood-sources are in fact very versatile and can work in a wide range of textile product markets. In addition to being sourced from natural wood materials and manufactured in environmentally-responsible process, the different types of TENCEL™ branded fibers offer a range of uses and functionalities which open doors to numerous applications and possibilities without compromising on quality.
From intimate apparel to performance enhancing sportswear, TENCEL™ branded lyocell and modal fibers can be combined with a wide range of textile fibers such as cotton, polyester, acrylic, wool, and silk to enhance fabrics with regard to their aesthetics, performance and functionality. More specifically, lyocell fibers provides natural comfort and functionality to the wearer, while modal fibers are known for its exquisite softness and richness colour, which can be adopted in a range of textile uses.
Tanitex, an international underwear and loungewear company, focuses on developing high-quality, durable and comfortable products with a core sustainable ethos. Michelle Tang, Director at Tanitex comments: “We consider sustainability in every step of our production, from using fibers from renewable sources like TENCEL™ Modal fibers, to knitting and dyeing in facilities that practice extensive recycling and with good water treatment. The feedback from consumers has been very positive, as they appreciate the consistently high quality of our products. They also feel that purchasing our products is not contributing to just more garbage in the landfill, as the products will last a long time and are sourced and produced sustainably.” [BCW1]
CLOSED, a Hamburg based clothing brand, in partnership with Candiani, recently launched “A Better Blue” line of denim designed to further advance the product’s circularity. The jeans incorporate TENCEL™ x REFIBRA™ Lyocell fibers, here is what CLOSED denim developer Uwe Kippschnieder had to say: “We were convinced by the fact how much water you can save by creating a pair of jeans that does not need fresh cotton. The product now on the market is 50 percent TENCEL™ x REFIBRA™ Lyocell and 50 percent cotton waste from Candiani production. The water savings for a pair of jeans is 2,600 litres, which is huge. We keep transportation very short. All our women’s and men’s jeans are made 100 percent in Italy near Milan.”[BCW2]
In addition to traditional apparel use, TENCEL™ branded fibers can also be found in footwear, such as US brand Allbirds. Known as “the world’s most comfortable shoes”, the Allbirds Tree collection offers footwear that can wick away moisture to create unmatched breathability and supreme comfort. [BCW3]
The versatility of this fabric can also be applied to the home textiles market from soft furnishings to bedding. The Marks & Spencer ‘Comfortably Cool’ range of smart bedding enabled by TENCEL™ is a prime example. These innovative sheets offer a sound nights sleep when temperatures rise. TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers excel in keeping users comfortably cool on hot summer nights. The naturally breathable and sustainable material helps to regulate body temperature, enhancing comfort and quality of sleep.
From durable denim, outerwear, performance wear, footwear and home textiles to delicate, breathable underwear, sleepwear and luxury fashion fabrics, the TENCEL™ brand has become exemplary when it comes to product versatility that is sustainable and environmentally-friendly from start to finish. It is this proactive and flexible approach to textiles that the fashion industry needs to apply across the board to secure its viable and eco-friendly future.
Reference:
https://www.tencel.com/news-and-events/allbirds-goes-greener-with-its-tree-line-featuring-tencel
