In Illinois, a startup has officially launched using catalyst technology developed by the University of Minnesota that converts corn-derived lactic acid into acrylics. Called Låkril Technologies, the company says the technology cuts carbon dioxide emissions by 35% compared to petroleum-based acrylics and is also cost-competitive. “Bio-based acrylics have long been sought by producers and end […]
In Amsterdam, an exhibit organized by Fashion for Good is showcasing a fashion future that is both stylish and sustainable thanks to materials innovation. The “Grow” exhibit, which opened recently, features textile samples made from cotton, kapok fibers, wood pulp, banana fibers and orange peels. It also includes the results of design partnerships facilitated by […]
In the Netherlands, startup Geneusbiotech has partnered with the University of Amsterdam to create 3D printable wood without cutting down any trees. The Teredine Project involves growing plant cells in growing medium into a material with wood-like texture. The goal is to create cells that can then be suspended in hydrogel and 3D printed. Geneusbiotech […]
In Denmark, luxury streetwear fashion brand Ganni has vowed to stop using animal leather by 2023 and is planning a line of shoes based on Vegea, a leather alternative made from grape waste. The line will include “chunky loafers,” flip flops, and sliders. “We’re phasing out leather completely by 2023, as it conflicts with our […]
A German brand has launched a plant-based version of the notoriously unsubstantial disposable undies spas provide for nearly-nude treatments like body scrubs and massages. Called Zero Waste, Urb’n Nature makes the scanty skivvies from cellulose fibers and cotton. The line is fully compostable, available for both sexes, and includes thongs, boxers, briefs, and tank tops. […]
In Germany, PUMA is piloting a biodegradable version of its SUEDE sneaker, which is one of its most recognizable styles. Dubbed RE:SUEDE, the shoe is made from Zeology tanned suede, thermoplastic elastomers, and hemp fibers. Just 500 will be manufactured and shipped in January. Pilot participants will wear RE:SUEDE for six months and then send […]
In the UK, “pollution pods” that mimic the sensation of breathing some of the world’s lowest-quality are being moved around the country to help draw attention to growing pollution impacts as world leaders gather in Glasgow for the highly anticipated COP26 meeting. First launched in 2017, the exhibit is comprised of five large domes made […]
In Washington, Microsoft is looking ahead to the data centers of the future, which it believes may be built with algae bricks and use hydrogen for energy. The computer giant expects to build up to a hundred data centers to keep pace with the growing connectivity in everyday lives, but at the same time needs […]
In Sweden, fast fashion leader H&M has launched a PETA-approved, animal-free collection featuring innovations like grape leather and a down made from flowers instead of geese. Dubbed Co-Exist, the line aims to emphasize that viable animal-free alternatives for fashion exist today. The line includes a puffer jacket made from down-alternative FLWRDWN, a vest made […]
In California, direct-to-consumer brand KOKOLU has raised $1 million in an angel investing round that it will use to expand its sustainable apparel offering. Its flagship product is a vegan leather shoe made entirely of bamboo, sugarcane, corn, beach tree and an undisclosed material it calls greenksole. The entire shoe will biodegrade in three years. […]
