STOCKHOLM - Renewcell has announced an agreement with blockchain specialist TextileGenesis aimed at providing full traceability for its Circulose pulp.
Renewcell uses a patented process to breakdown and recycle cotton and other cellulosic textile waste, such as worn-out jeans and production scraps, to create a biodegradable raw material that can be used to create viscose, lyocell, modal, acetate and other man-made cellulosic fibers. These regenerated fibers can then be turned into new high-quality textiles and nonwovens.
With its agreement with TextileGenesis in place, Renewcell says it will be able to share real-time digital traceability with its customers and supply chain partners. The platform uses digital tokens to ensure a secure chain of custody for all supply chain processes from raw materials to retail. The company's fiber-forwards traceability captures real-time shipments; its Fibercoins digital tokens verify point of origin and eliminate double counting of sustainable materials whilst its AI (augmented intelligence) engine verifies transactions between supply chain partners.
TextileGenesis is already partnering with fibre producers including Lenzing AG, Eastman, and Birla Cellulose.
“Since Renewcell was founded in 2012, we have been on a mission to create circularity in the fashion industry," said Patrik Lundstrom, Renewcell Chief Executive Officer. "We have the unique ability to make a pulp, branded as Circulose, made from 100 per cent textile waste which is actually recycleable again. Circulose can create new fibres which are equal in quality while reducing textile waste going to landfills.”
He continued: “Our new facility in Sundsvall, Sweden, is helping move us towards our goal of recycling the equivalent of more than 1.4 billion T-shirts per year. But we also need a trusted and transparent supply chain to ensure the authenticity of products made from Circulose from our facilities all the way to the retail consumer. That is what TextileGenesis brings to the table.”
Amit Gautum, TextileGenesis founder and chief executive officer added: "Traceability is fast becoming a key prerequisite to sustainable product offerings. Our partnership with Renewcell will create unprecedented supply chain traceability for Circulose pulp towards retail brands. It moves forward the sustainable fibres industry to create end-to-end traceability.
"Renewcell has engineered a truly circular process to make Circulose. TextileGenesis helps Renewcell verify every step of the supply chain and carry that authentic and transparent message all the way to their brand and retail partners.”