Invista launches its first organic Lycra

By

Matthieu Guinebault

Published
May 12, 2014

The fibers and polymers company has announced the launch of the first bio-derived Lycra fiber. The “only commercially available bio-derived spandex currently on the market" consists of 70% renewable materials, based on dextrose obtained from corn.

Invista has stressed that the nature of the new material will not require any change in the manufacturing process or engineering of clothing. With the material, the group aims to offer products that reduce CO² emissions, a serious issue for conventionally manufactured spandex.

It is also a way to meet growing expectations by brands and consumers for products with smaller carbon footprints.

"We are very aware that sustainability topics are becoming increasingly important in the textile and apparel value chain, with growing awareness and building education on the subject at the consumer, brand/retail and mill level," says Arnaud Tandonnet, Invista apparel global sustainability director.

"In our research facilities we have successfully produced the fiber and evaluated it in fabric applications. The production of commercial quantities is planned for the autumn/winter 2015 and spring/summer 2016 collections. We look forward to working with our customers throughout the value chains we expand this new development."

Owner of the brand Lycra and Cordura, Invista is currently present in over twenty countries. Specializing in fibers and polymers, the company employs about 10,000 people.

In January 2013, the company joined the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, an NGO that brings together representatives from all stages of the apparel supply chain in order to reduce the social and environmental impact of the industry.