Henri Lloyd uses Teijin recycling programme for marine apparel
UK-based marine apparel producer Henri Lloyd is to use Japan-based Teijin Fibers Limited’s Eco Circle recycling programme.
Eco Circle is a closed-loop recycling system for polyester products that uses what Teijin describes as the world’s first chemical recycling technology. This is the first time the technology has been used for marine wear.
Henri-Lloyd will produce sailing garments using Teijin’s Eco Storm, a recyclable, waterproof and breathable material made from recycled fibres and laminated with a highly durable thin polyester film. The initial line-up will include the Blue Eco Jacket and Hi Fit trousers, both of which are windproof, waterproof and highly breathable. The Blue Eco products will be available in Henri Lloyd’s own stores and its wholesale account network in the UK as well as the USA, Australia, across Europe and Japan.
As part of the programme, Henri Lloyds Blue Eco partners will accept these garments from customers after they are worn out, from where they will be sent to Teijin Fibers’ Matsuyama plant in Japan. After chemical decomposition, they will be converted into polyester raw material which will then be turned into Eco Circle fibres and used to manufacture new recyclable products.
According to Teijin, using this system significantly reduces energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions compared with conventional petroleum-based processes that are used to produce polyester.
Paul Strzelecki, joint chief executive of Henri Lloyd, said: “This is a positive first step on a long journey to become a more environmentally friendly company. It is also a very exciting time, particularly with our exclusive marine wear association with Teijin who are pioneers in this field. We not only aim to significantly reduce CO2 emissions into the environment but also want to provide our customers with an opportunity to actively participate in the mission to help preserve our oceans. We look forward to further developments in this area, and hope the ‘infinite loop’ recycling system will set the course for the future of marine clothing manufacturing.”
