Biodegradable Fabrics in Activewear: CELYS™ Innovations
There is nothing quite like hitting the gym in comfortable, stretchy activewear that moves with you. It adds that extra bit of satisfaction to the entire experience.
But if that same activewear was known to be impacting the planet that would kill the purpose entirely, would it not? Who would want to work on their bodies but harm the environment simultaneously?
This awareness is the reason consumers have woken up to the need for sustainable activewear and these voices continue to get louder.
Businesses have come up with countless solutions to cater to the consumer demands for sustainability and innovative approaches have opened up a world of opportunities.
The development of biodegradable fabrics is one such innovative solution that has proven to be a great success. Let us see how.
The Need for Sustainable Activewear
In recent years, fashion production has increased exponentially and the total revenue of the clothing industry is projected to reach a staggering USD1.79 trillion in 2024.
This is due to an overwhelming demand and consumption of fast fashion which is very affordable and hence, easily discardable. Clothing worth USD 5 billion is thrown away each year with most of it ending up in landfills. To add to that, about half a million tonnes of microplastics can be found in the oceans causing serious health hazards to not just marine life but to human life too.
Environmentalists have been raising the alarm bells and urging all parties involved to take action. They argue that sustainable fashion is the way forward and both, the industry and consumers, need to change their ways.
The tide is slowly turning as more people start to wake up to the benefits of eco-friendly fabrics and ethical production methods. Brands like CELYS™ are leading the charge by developing innovative fabrics for biodegradable activewear, aiming to reduce the environmental footprint.
What are biodegradable fabrics?
Biodegradable fabrics are materials that can decompose naturally through the action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. Unlike synthetic fabrics, which can take hundreds of years to break down, biodegradable fabrics return to the earth much faster without leaving harmful residues behind.
What fabrics are biodegradable?
Biodegradable fibres are those that are normally made from natural fibres derived from organic sources. They could be plant-based such as cotton, hemp or bamboo or animal-based such as wool and silk.
These fibres can decompose naturally leaving behind only carbon dioxide, water and biomass. Most importantly, these fabrics do not shed any kinds of microplastics.
The problem with traditional PET
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely used material in the textile industry due to its excellent physical and chemical properties. It is highly suitable for use in fast fashion and activewear. However, it is notorious for being non-biodegradable, contributing significantly to environmental pollution and landfill waste.
Introducing CELYSTM Compostable Fibre
It was in the year 2021 that INTIMITI AUSTRALIA Pty Ltd introduced the world’s first fully compostable fibre CELYS™, that unlocked the end-of-life biodegradation technology. The development of CELYS™ fibres was driven by a clear and ambitious goal: to create a biodegradable polyester.
After numerous trials and errors, CELYS™ successfully introduced easy-breaking ester linkages during the polymerisation process. This innovation greatly facilitated the cleavage of these linkages when exposed to the right environmental conditions, allowing the fibres to biodegrade fully within 179 days in industrial compost.
CELYS™ is now revolutionising the textile industry with its innovative approach and is setting a new standard for sustainable activewear.
The fibre has proven its biodegradability according to international testing standards and has been certified by DIN & Seedling for the E.U. market and BPI for the NA market.
Unique Performances of CELYS™ Fibres
CELYS™ fibres are not only biodegradable but also offer unique performance characteristics that make them ideal for use in sustainable activewear.
- They provide the soft, luxurious feel of cotton while maintaining the durability of polyester.
- The low-pilling property guarantees that the fabric maintains a smooth, high-quality appearance even after extensive use.
- Low-temperature dyeing allows for vibrant colours while reducing energy consumption during the dyeing process.
- Quick drying keeps the wearer dry and comfortable.
- Its natural wicking and breathability promotes air circulation and moisture evaporation, making it ideal for biodegradable activewear.
- Hydrophilicity allows the fabric to absorb moisture, improving the performance of both the fabric and its wearer.
Diversified Applications of CELYS™ Fibers
CELYS™ fibres are versatile and can be used in a wide range of products. We have discussed some of these below.
- Suits & Shirts made from CELYSTM offer a combination of comfort, style, and sustainability.
- Dresses made with the fibres are not just elegant but also biodegradable.
- CELYSTM is best suited for baby clothing due to its comfort on the most delicate skins.
- Sustainable insulation jackets not only give you warmth but peace of mind too.
- Underwear, denim and bottoms made using this material combine durability with eco-friendliness and provide comfort and hygiene all packed in one.
- CELYSTM used in sportswear and outdoors helps in enhancing performance and sustainability for active lifestyles.
- Shoes contribute to more sustainable footwear options.
- Used in home textiles it can provide bed linens and curtains that are both stylish and eco-friendly.
- Faux Fur offers an animal-friendly and biodegradable alternative to traditional fur.
CELYS™ is committed to continuing its advancements and pushing the boundaries of sustainable textile production. Their novel polyester is both biodegradable and high-performing and aims to usher in a new era of eco-friendly fashion.
This commitment to sustainability ensures that the CELYSTM innovations not only meet current market demands but also pave the way for a greener future.
Conclusion
With the climate crisis growing graver every day, if there was ever a time to act, it is now.
CELYS™ represents a significant advancement in the textile industry and has provided it with an alternative where the durability and versatility of polyester can be enjoyed in the form of biodegradable fabric. Their innovative approach and dedication to sustainability make CELYS™ a frontrunner in the move towards a more environmentally responsible fashion industry.
So even though we love our activewear and we love to work out, our love for sustainability trumps all!
