In North Carolina, AlgiKnit, a producer of seaweed-based yarn, has opened a production facility at Research Triangle for piloting innovations in partnership with major fashion brands. The new site centralizes AlgiKnit’s R&D, manufacturing, and business development.
“We know consumers need more cost-competitive, environmentally-sound material options that perform as well as conventional materials,” says Aaron Nesser, co-founder and CTO of AlgiKnit, in a press statement. “The yarn we’re producing today has the look and feel of the natural fibers consumers are familiar with, plus all the makings of a no-compromise conscious material.”
According to the World Economic Forum, fashion is the third most polluting industry, largely due to the production of synthetic fibers like polyester.
Aleksandra Gosiewski, co-founder and COO of AlgiKnit, adds that the company is also excited for the opportunity “to tap into the deep and diverse pool of talent and knowledge in the [Research Triangle] area to strengthen our scientific and engineering divisions.”