Project Overview: We’re developing a bio-based, biodegradable alternative to elastane, derived from the natural stretch properties of seaweed. Our solution mimics elastane’s elasticity while eliminating fossil fuel dependence, toxicity, and microplastic pollution. This solution is:
– Sustainable: Produced without land or fertilizers, minimizing environmental impact.
– Non-Toxic: Free from hazardous chemicals, ensuring worker and consumer safety.
– Biodegradable: Fully decomposes in natural environments, preventing waste accumulation.
– Plug-and-Play: Compatible with existing textile production processes and upcoming regulations.
Current Progress
Finalizing our MVP and optimizing fiber performance.
Collaborating with lingerie brands for industry insights and market validation.
Engaging manufacturers to understand the technical aspects of integrating our fiber into existing production lines.
Partnering with waste management stakeholders to refine biodegradability principles (hopefully in the future, establish clearer global standards for biodegradable textiles) and prevent greenwashing
Innovation Focus: Our goal is to replace elastane in stretch textiles with a biodegradable fiber derived from seaweed. We’re overcoming challenges such as water, heat, and light resistance by exploring advanced crosslinking techniques to improve strength, elasticity, and durability, while ensuring biodegradability.
By collaborating with a brand and manufacturer, we aim to understand the full supply chain and refine our material for scalability. We will optimize fiber performance for dyeing, knitting, and garment production, ensuring the final product meets the stringent demands of lingerie manufacturing. This partnership will help us integrate our fibers into existing systems without major modifications.
Our approach transforms this challenge into an opportunity by replacing elastane with a biodegradable, bio-based alternative made from seaweed. Our innovation directly addresses fashion’s key pain points: it eliminates fossil fuel dependency, is non-toxic for consumers and workers, and biodegrades without microplastic pollution. Designed as a plug-and-play solution, it integrates seamlessly into existing manufacturing processes and aligns with upcoming regulations, providing a market-ready, high-performance alternative.
We are currently developing our MVP within Imperial College’s Undaunted Greenhouse program, leveraging a £20,000 equity-free grant, lab facilities, and mentorship to refine our business model. We are collaborating with lingerie brands and manufacturers to ensure seamless integration into existing supply chains. Additionally, we are currently exploring stable feedstock options and are seeking partnerships with coastal communities to address challenges of invasive seaweed. We also aim to collaborate with the waste management sector to establish regulated biodegradability standards.
We are catalyzing systemic change in fashion, ensuring that end-of-life sustainability is prioritized, and empowering brands to rethink material choices beyond quick fixes. Our vision is a future where textiles are non-toxic, circular, and harmonized with nature.
Indirect:
Textile Workers: Safer working conditions
Sustainable Brands: Fully sustainable
Waste Management Industry: Textile biodegradability standards
Consumers: Toxin-free garments
Global Communities: Healthier ecosystem
Creating an inclusive value chain, we’re reshaping the textile industry's future to be ethical, equitable, and regenerative
Designing Future 2025 Deck (1)-compressed.pdf