The latest on the most amazing eco-sustainable materials of 2024
Fashion is not only a means of expressing our personalities, but also a powerful force affecting the planet. The textile industry is one of the most polluting in the world, responsible for significant emissions, exploitation of natural resources and unethical practices. However, the adoption of environmentally sustainable materials is a practical response to these problems. Choosing innovative and environmentally friendly alternatives not only reduces our ecological impact, but also promotes more conscious and responsible fashion.
The end of the year is a classic time for taking stock, and as we look back over this past year, we would like to take a closer look at some of the technologies in the field of materials engineering that have impressed us, and that are revolutionizing the industry, proving that creativity and sustainability can go hand in hand. Whether you are a responsible consumer, or you want to buy sustainable garments, or you are an entrepreneur who wants to create a line with eco-friendly and sustainable materials, here are a number of tips and alternatives that are right for you. It’s time to be inspired by change!
Mirum – The Plastic-Free Faux Leather
Mirum, created by Natural Fiber Welding, is proposed as the world’s first plastic-free alternative to leather. It is a material composed of ingredients such as vegetable oil, natural rubber, minerals and vegan pigments. Although still in its early stages, Mirum has already attracted industry attention and has been adopted by brands such as Ralph Lauren, Allbirds and Stella McCartney, as well as for automotive interiors. To measure Mirum’s impact, NFW conducted a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), specifically studying the Cradle-to-Gate product. The analysis showed that Mirum’s “carbon footprint” is only 30-40% compared to the footprint of synthetic leather and 5% compared to conventional leather. NFW has established three guiding principles for the production of its materials: Start Well, Stay Clean and End Well. With closed-loop green chemistry, Mirum is designed to return to the earth once its life cycle is over, creating a new model of sustainable economy.
Biosteeel – The artificial spider web
Biosteel is an innovative material created by the German company AMSilk, which uses spider silk proteins synthesized in the laboratory. Biosteel is prized for its high performance: it is lightweight, strong and breathable, designed to be up to 30 percent thinner than mulberry silk while maintaining high tensile strength. Biosteel offers advanced moisture management and natural antibacterial properties, making it ideal for sportswear and medical uses. A revolutionary biotechnology material completely free of animal exploitation. To produce Biosteel, AMSilk employs recombinant bacteria that generate spider-like silk proteins, but without the use of animals. This innovative bioengineering technique is completely vegan and cruelty-free, greatly reducing the environmental impact compared to conventional silk production. Biosteel has already conquered the world of fashion and technology through collaborations with well-known brands such as Adidas, Omega, Mercedes, and Airbus. From sneakers to accessories and even automotive interior components.
Savian – Luxury inspired by nature
Savian is an extraordinary innovation created by Bio-Fluff INC, and its name means “dandelion,” recalling the delicacy of natural fibers and the mission to create soft, sustainable materials. This vision combines science and fashion to redefine the concept of luxury, proving that creativity and responsibility can coexist. Savian uses plant fibers such as nettle, hemp, and linen, transforming them into soft, fine fabrics. These materials contain no GMOs or toxic chemicals, offering a cruelty-free and environmentally friendly alternative. Production in Italy, combined with the use of European resources, strengthens the link between innovation and tradition. Its production process reduces CO2 emissions between 40% and 90% compared to conventional materials, thanks to the use of renewable fibers. Savian offers shearling, teddy and vegetable furs, versatile materials that combine luxury, comfort and sustainability. Ideal for clothing and accessories, they invite designers and consumers to explore a new concept of ethical fashion.
FLWRDWN – Nature in the Service of Warmth.
FLWRDWN™ stands for “Flower Down” and denotes a material that replaces animal feathers with a combination of wildflowers, biopolymers and an innovative patented aerogel. Born from PANGAIA’s vision, this material addresses the need for fashion that respects the planet by providing warmth and comfort without exploiting animals. Traditional fashion mainly uses two types of padding for outerwear: polyester, which is derived from petroleum, and goose feathers, which involve animal suffering. PANGAIA saw this as an opportunity to change the rules, creating a bio-based solution that harnesses the potential of plants and minimizes environmental impact. Hand-picked and managed by organizations that promote habitat conservation, these flowers are combined with a biopolymer derived from corn or sugarcane and a patented aerogel. This unique blend creates a thermal filling with extraordinary performance, capable of retaining heat naturally and sustainably.
Vegetable Cashmere – Sustainable Luxury
Vegetable Cashmere™ is a blend of plant fibers designed to offer the softness and luxury of animal cashmere, but in a completely sustainable way and without the use of animal fibers. This innovative material is designed to be not only environmentally friendly but also practical: it is biodegradable, UV-resistant, and suitable for even the most sensitive skin. In addition, it is machine washable, keeps colors intact, and ensures superior quality for every use. Animal cashmere, while valuable, is linked to numerous ethical and environmental issues. Traditional production causes animal exploitation, carries a significant ecological impact and often damages local ecosystems. Vegetable Cashmere™ represents a sustainable choice that does not sacrifice quality or comfort, but respects animals and the planet. It is the ideal solution for those who want to combine ethics, style and functionality in one product.
Bananatex – The fruit of three years of research
Bananatex® is the world’s first durable, biodegradable, plastic-free fabric made exclusively from regeneratively grown Abacá banana plants. These plants grow in a permaculture environment in the highlands of the Philippines, without the need for pesticides, fertilizers or extra water. Such an ecosystem not only promotes reforestation of deforested areas, but also improves biodiversity and supports local farmers economically. Bananatex® was developed by the Swiss brand QWSTION, in collaboration with yarn and weaving experts from Taiwan. This project resulted in a material that is biodegradable in both industrial composts and marine environments. Abacá grows in harmony with sustainable mixed forests, without the need for additional resources, and this has allowed areas damaged by monoculture to be restored, contributing to the local agricultural economy; each Abacá plant also regenerates its stems in one year. The yarn, dyed using sustainable dyeing techniques, is a strong and durable yet soft and lightweight fabric. Thanks to a special natural waxing process, it can become waterproof… Bananatex® has inspired major brands such as Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, and H&M, who have chosen it to create innovative and sustainable garments. From the famous Triple S Sneakers to bag and accessory collections, the fabric is revolutionizing the world of fashion and design.
While we may feel we are at the bottom of a gargantuan economic food chain that is immovably directed toward wasting resources and subjected to pollution, the future of fashion is constantly evolving, and these innovations show us that change is possible. Materials such as those listed above are not only cutting-edge technologies, but a symbol of hope for a more ethical and sustainable industry. Looking forward means continuing to invest in research, collaborating to find better solutions, and most importantly, making informed choices as consumers. We close this 2024 with the inspiration of these innovations, ready to chart a course toward a future where style and sustainability coexist harmoniously. Fashion can be an engine of positive change-our job is to support it.
Edited by Antonio Di Pierro
