Sustainable fibre innovation of Finland-based company Spinnova took its place among twelve innovative solutions for plastic microfiber pollution in Conservation X Lab’s Microfiber Innovation Challenge. The finalists were decided by external panels of experts drawn from across the sustainable apparel industry, microplastics research experts, and innovation accelerators. Innovations were judged on feasibility, potential for growth, environmental impact, and the novelty of their approach.
The Microfiber Innovation Challenge invited scientists, engineers, biologists, entrepreneurs and innovators across the world to submit applications showing how their innovations can solve the issue at the source, receiving submissions from 24 countries. The Challenge will award $650,000 for innovations that help prevent further microfiber pollution. In addition to Spinnova, amongst the finalists are AlgiKnit, AltMat, KintraFibers, Mango Materials, Nanoloom, NFW® (Natural Fiber Welding), Orange Fiber, PANGAIA x MTIX Microfiber Mitigation, Squitex, TreeKind and Werewool Fibers. The winners of the prize will be unveiled at an event in early 2022 as part of a Solutions Fair and Awards Ceremony.
Spinnova contributes to the fight against microplastic pollution
CEO and Co-Founder of Spinnova Janne Poranen said; “We are honoured to be involved in this competition and global community that fights microplastics pollution, which is a fundamental environmental problem largely contributed by synthetic textile fibres. The natural SPINNOVA® fibre is 100% microplastic free, so we are very committed to mitigating this invisible but dangerous problem”.
Spinnova’s microplastic free natural fibre innovation mechanically refines wood or waste into a textile fibre without any harmful chemicals in the manufacturing process. Spinnova’s textile materials do not shed any polluting microfibers into the environment can be used instead of cotton, polyester and other synthetic materials. Now, Spinnova is entering an exciting period as their first products, such as a naturally-waxed waterproof jacket, have entered the market and first commercial scale factory is being built.
Stopping microfiber pollution requires a significant transformation in production processes
Millions of tiny fibres are shed when synthetic textiles are worn and washed, and these contribute to an estimated 35% of the primary microplastics released into the oceans and waterways, according to a 2017 report by IUCN. Stopping microfiber pollution requires a significant transformation in textile and clothing production processes. In this way, the Microfiber Innovation Challenge is supporting solutions that will halt microfiber pollution, an increasing threat to human and planetary health.
Co-Founder of Conservation X Labs Paul Bunje disclosed that these are some of the most revolutionary innovations that are needed to create a more sustainable future and said; “We are excited to provide critical support to the real solutions, products, and tools that are addressing the exponentially growing plastic pollution crisis”.
