Pangaia and Avantium share a goal of developing fossil-fuel-free and recyclable materials to contribute to the fashion industry's sustainability efforts.
Avantium's Polyethylene Furanoate (PEF) is derived from Furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and will be produced in its so-called “world-first” commercial FDCA Flagship Plant that is currently under construction in Delfzijl, the Netherlands. Large-scale production is anticipated to commence in the second half of 2024.
Avantium's PEF is said to be a versatile polymer with applications ranging from bottles and packaging to films and textiles.
The company said it has intensified its focus on developing PEF for fibres and yarns over the past year, specifically targeting the fashion industry.
PEF-based fibres have the potential to replace PET fibre, constituting 54% of global fibre production in 2021 (60.5 million tonnes).
PEF claims to align with existing polyester infrastructure for both production and recycling, offering a scalable renewable alternative to fossil-fuel-derived PET.
Tom van Aken, CEO of Avantium said: "Together we will demonstrate that PEF-based clothing has great potential to play a key role in reducing the fashion industry's impact on the climate.”
PEF-based fibres boast a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to synthetic fibres derived from fossil fuels and can be recycled using existing facilities.
Pangaia, a certified B Corporation, said it is committed to minimising reliance on fossil fuels and prioritising renewable outputs.
The brand explained the partnership with Avantium will help enhance its synthetic portfolio, aligning with its dedication to transitioning to preferred materials.
Pangaia Collective added: "By working with Avantium and their PEF material there's incredible scaling potential to utilise PEF across a range of product categories which has led us to this partnership agreement. We look forward to introducing this innovative material once Avantium’s Flagship Plant is operational.”
