Are algae fibres the future of green fashion?

These biopolymers could replace resource-heavy natural fibres

Spotted: Research points to fibre production and yarn preparation being two of the biggest contributors to the fashion industry’s pollution impact. Both activities also significantly deplete natural resources, such as water.

Innovators seeking greener fabrics are starting to consider different source materials. One example, Keel Labs, uses fast-growing, CO2-absorbing seaweed for its Kelsun fibre. This fibre consists of a seaweed biopolymer called alginate, which is mixed with proprietary additives and water before being extruded and stretched, combined with other natural fibres such as cotton, and then spun into yarn.

As well as minimising waste, using seaweed as part of the textile production process also greatly reduces the amount of arable land, chemicals, and water that’s required compared with the commercial cultivation of other natural fibres.

When knitted or woven into a final piece, Kelsun fibre is soft and smooth and is designed to provide manufacturers with an instant replacement to traditional yarns. The fibres integrate seamlessly with existing industrial machinery to provide brands with an important source of sustainable yarn for their designs.

Keel Labs currently works with a variety of coastal partners for sustainable seaweed harvesting and processing, and Kelsun fibre is certified by the US Department of Agriculture as a 100 per cent bio-based product.

Written By: Keely Khoury