“Tide” and tested: Uluu, Norrøna develop seaweed-based apparel
In Australia, Uluu has partnered with Norwegian outdoor brand Norrøna to develop next-generation outdoor apparel made from seaweed. The collaboration will focus on next-generation textiles that combine the performance of synthetic fibers with the environmental benefits of seaweed and natural materials. The companies will use these novel materials to prototype waterproof and windproof apparel.
Uluu has already melt-spun its seaweed material into different types of yarn and fabric using established manufacturing processes, opening a pathway to replacing conventional synthetic fibers.
Uluu co-founder and co-CEO Michael Kingsbury said the two companies shared a belief that people should be able to enjoy the ocean and outdoors without harming them. “The outdoor industry has relied on fossil fuel-derived materials for more than half a century,” he said. “We’re working with Norrøna to prove the next generation of performance textiles can come from the ocean instead. It’s a powerful signal about where the industry is heading.”
Category: Chemicals & Materials
