Spotlight on sustainable materials: what is ECONYL®?
In recent years, a quiet but significant revolution has been taking place in the materials sector, highlighting the growing importance of sustainable alternatives in one of the world's most polluting industries. As consumers and businesses become increasingly aware of environmental challenges, the focus on sustainability is intensifying, propelling innovative new materials to the forefront. If brands are increasingly concerned about their environmental impact, it is largely thanks to consumers and their changing, more sustainable habits.
We're all actively seeking out brands that integrate responsible practices throughout their supply chain, from production to distribution. Recycled materials, sustainable packaging, and eco-certifications have become important selection criteria for many of us.
Many notable changes are observed in several areas but it is the " fashion " sphere that interests us here.
The change in our habits within the fashion world
Indeed, we are seeing a drastic change in clothing purchasing behavior. Consumers are now prioritizing quality over quantity , investing in durable and timeless clothing rather than disposable "trendy" items. Vintage stores are also on the scene. This is an opportunity to find fashionable, second-hand pieces that are cheaper and rarer. The French government, among others, is showing growing interest in this issue by exploring the possibility of applying new taxes on fast fashion .
Social media and online information play a key role in raising consumer awareness about sustainable practices. Awareness campaigns and green initiatives are increasingly encouraging more people to adopt environmentally friendly lifestyles.
It was through social networks and advertising campaigns of new brands that I became interested in this innovative fiber: ECONYL ®.
What is ECONYL®?
ECONYL® is an innovative, eco-friendly fiber made from plastic waste, particularly abandoned fishing nets and other nylon waste. This material was designed and developed by the Italian company Aquafil , which specializes in the production of synthetic fibers.
Its history dates back to the early 2000s, when Aquafil began exploring solutions to recycle marine plastic waste , with a focus on nylon fishing nets. As you know, these nets, abandoned or lost at sea, contribute significantly to marine pollution. The Italian company then developed an innovative process to transform this waste into a new, high-quality nylon fiber, called ECONYL ®.
The regeneration process involves collecting plastic waste, depolymerizing it, purifying it, and reformulating the nylon, without sacrificing the quality of the original material. This approach creates a durable, strong, and highly tactile fiber, while also helping to reduce plastic waste in the oceans.
What types of clothing can ECONYL® material be used for?
ECONYL® is now used in a variety of products, such as swimwear and sportswear, for example. More and more brands that have included eco-responsibility at the heart of their creations have adopted this fiber for its environmental benefits, thus contributing to the promotion of sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
As you can see with Khiónê swimsuits, the material is pleasant on the skin, thick and very resistant while having the particularity of drying quickly .
In summary, ECONYL® is the result of efforts to transform plastic waste into a valuable resource, demonstrating the possibility of reconciling innovation, sustainability and environmental responsibility in the manufacture of textile materials.
This is the approach I have been following since the creation of Khiónê and which I intend to follow for all possible product diversifications that I will offer you in the future.