Lululemon invests in Genomatica to boost bio-nylon
19/08/2021
This is the Canadian company’s first equity investment in a sustainable materials company and Genomatica’s largest partnership within the retail industry.
The two companies will create a lower-impact, plant-based nylon to replace conventional nylon, which is the largest volume of synthetic material currently used to make Lululemon products.
Genomatica uses biotechnology and fermentation to convert plant-based ingredients into chemical building blocks. These are converted to pellets and yarns, and the companies will be working with lululemon’s fabric supply chain to incorporate this material into products.
Calvin McDonald, CEO of Lululemon said, “Our partnership with and investment in Genomatica demonstrates our commitment to be a leader in creating products that help build a healthier future for ourselves, for our communities and for our planet.
“Genomatica’s bio-based innovations, along with their distinctive record of successful commercial applications, will help us deliver on our Impact Agenda goals to make 100% of our products with sustainable materials and end-of-use solutions by 2030, as we move toward a circular ecosystem.”
Christophe Schilling, CEO, Genomatica added: “The combination of biotechnology, fermentation and renewable feedstocks can provide a powerful means to disrupt the apparel industry through sustainable sourcing.”
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