Eco-core from Wellman

As a new subsidiary of Indorama Ventures, Wellman International has introduced a new sustainable fibre filling for duvets called Eco-core.

Wellman recycles some 1.6 billion plastic bottles annually in the production of its fibres, and indeed, is Europe’s largest recycler of PET bottles and also the leading European producer of polyester staple fibre.

End-use markets for its products range from home furnishings and personal care items to automotive, insulation and filtration products.

Eco-core is supported by a comprehensive branding and online marketing programme, which is aimed at generating consumer awareness and social responsibility in relation to sustainability issues. Products which contain 100% Eco-core fibre are eligible for access to this programme. Further information is available at www.eco-core.eu.

The raw material content and the processes used in the production of Eco-core are supported and validated by an independent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study, undertaken at Utrecht University, The Netherlands. With this study as the basis of its submission, Wellman won the 2011 ‘Waste to Business Resource Award’.

“Eco-core is the new name for a truly sustainable polyester staple fibre in Europe,” said managing director Frank Gleeson. “This premium ingredient fibre brand represents guaranteed, traceable, sustainable raw material content – and validated sustainable production processes – ensuring a significant reduction in harmful carbon emissions.”