Birla Cellulose, the cellulosic fibre arm of the Aditya Birla Group, and Circ, a US-based leader in textile-to-textile recycling, have entered a long-term strategic alliance aimed at accelerating recycling in the textile industry.
Through this partnership, Birla Cellulose will purchase up to 5,000 tons of Circ’s recycled pulp annually over five years, sourced from Circ’s "first" commercial-scale facility. This pulp will be transformed into lyocell staple fibre, enhancing accessibility to recycled materials and advancing Circ’s production capabilities.
Peter Majeranowski, CEO of Circ, emphasised the partnership's significance, stating: "Our partnership with Birla Cellulose, a leading global producer of MMCFs, is significant as it demonstrates both Circ’s ongoing progress towards scalability as well as the industry’s commitment to investing in a truly circular economy. Together, we are poised to create a more sustainable fashion future by integrating recycled materials into textiles on the global stage."
Dr Aspi Patel, chief technology officer of Grasim Industries Limited, echoed this sentiment: "This partnership reflects our deep commitment to environmental stewardship and represents a crucial step in advancing innovation within the textile industry. By combining Circ's cutting-edge recycling technology with our cellulosic fibres, we are significantly enhancing the potential for a truly circular economy."
Birla Cellulose explained that as brands and consumers increasingly prioritise eco-friendly options, the supply chain will play a pivotal role in facilitating demand.
It highlighted that the partnership with Circ demonstrates the role of collaboration in effectively scaling recycling initiatives.
Birla Circulose further said that its willingness to procure and utilise Circ pulp ensures that the company's customers have access to high-quality recycled Circ lyocell, adding: "This partnership enables brands and supply chain partners can partake and play their part in the future of the global fashion industry."
Both companies shared their commitment to promoting circular economy practices and reducing environmental impact through innovative technology and material reuse. They are also aligned on their shared vision for a sustainable future with a promise to set new benchmarks in the textile industry.
Last year, Birla Cellulose partnered with clean textile innovation company Algaeing to introduce an environment-friendly "algae-powered" cellulosic fibre in a bid to "detoxify the textile industry".
