NEXTEVO and AMSilk Lead Sustainable Textile Innovation

Today, news out of Vietnam and Germany, respectively, highlight that NEXTEVO and AMSilk are making significant strides in sustainable textile innovation. These companies are addressing environmental challenges and transforming the fashion industry by leveraging agricultural byproducts and advanced biomaterials.

NEXTEVO’s Innovative Use of Pineapple Leaf Fiber

NEXTEVO, a Singapore-based materials science startup, has announced the launch of its first production facility in Dong Nai province, Vietnam. This facility transforms pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) into ready-to-spin (RTS) fiber using a highly efficient mechanical process. This development addresses two major environmental issues: agricultural waste disposal and the fashion industry’s carbon footprint.

Environmental Benefits of Pineapple Leaf Fiber

Agricultural, forestry, and land use contribute 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Improper disposal of agricultural waste, such as burning or decomposing unused pineapple residues, releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide and methane. NEXTEVO’s process mitigates these emissions by repurposing agricultural byproducts into sustainable textile materials.

Vietnam, the third-largest textile exporter globally, provides an ideal location for NEXTEVO’s facility. Proximity to major seaports and Ho Chi Minh City enhances cost efficiency and reduces inland transportation emissions. NEXTEVO sources pineapple leaf fiber from the Philippines, Indonesia, and East Africa, with plans to include Vietnam and India, ensuring a consistent raw material supply.

Pineapple leaves, a byproduct of fruit cultivation, require no additional land, water, or fertilizers. This eco-friendly method minimizes environmental impact and transforms waste into valuable resources. The leaves are compostable, biodegradable, skin-friendly, and breathable, making them ideal for innovative fashion and textile materials.

Product Offerings and Customization

NEXTEVO offers various product materials, including Pineapple RTS fiber, blended yarn, and blended fabric. These materials are customizable for spinners, yarn producers, and brands and serve diverse applications in apparel, accessories, footwear, home textiles, and automotive interiors.

NEXTEVO is committed to connecting suppliers, retailers, and customers to promote sustainable natural fiber growth in Vietnam and improve the livelihoods of farming communities in the Philippines, Indonesia, and East Africa. The company aims to cut its carbon footprint in half by 2028 and plans to incorporate other sustainable natural fibers in the future.

AMSilk’s Advanced Biomaterials from Spider Silk Proteins

AMSilk GmbH, a leader in advanced biomaterials made from spider silk-based proteins, will debut at Première Vision Paris, Europe’s largest textile trade show, from July 2-4, 2024. This event attracts leading decision-makers from top brands and designers, allowing AMSilk to showcase its biofabricated yarns.

Redefining Bio-Based Materials

AMSilk is the only company that has successfully produced continuous filament yarns from spider silk proteins. The company is ready for commercialization and aims to redefine the boundaries of bio-based materials with its innovative products.

Following its debut at Pitti Immagine Filati in Florence, Italy, AMSilk will use Première Vision Paris as a platform to exhibit its industry-leading biomaterials and contribute to discussions shaping the future of the textile industry.

Innovations for the Win

NEXTEVO and AMSilk exemplify how innovative materials and sustainable practices can address environmental challenges and revolutionize the textile industry. With NEXTEVO’s pineapple leaf fiber and AMSilk’s spider silk proteins, these companies are setting new standards for eco-friendly fashion and textiles.