In recent years, efforts to move the fashion industry into a more sustainable category than it currently is has created various movements—from high-profile fashion brands making pledges to be more mindful of the environment to various innovative sustainable fabrics that are developed by designers and creatives. One recent example of the latter comes from the Royal College of Art.
Students from RCA have come together on a project to reveal next-gen sustainable fabrics. Called ‘SaltyCo,’ the innovation calls for the use of salt-tolerant plants grown in seawater as the main ingredient. Currently, there are three different prototypes in the making—"a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, and a technical stuffing." The sustainable fabrics are believed to be functional as insulation, faux leather, and clothing. This project is motivating the launch of a start-up by the same name that will bring cutting-edge solutions to the textile industry.
Seawater Plant-Derived Sustainable Fabrics
SaltyCo is Developing an Eco-Friendly Fashion Solution
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Fabrics - The rise of sustainable fabrics in the fashion industry, such as those made from salt-tolerant plants grown in seawater, provide opportunities for innovative and eco-friendly materials.
2. Eco-friendly Fashion - The fashion industry is beginning to shift towards more eco-friendly practices, creating opportunities for designers and brands to incorporate sustainable materials into their collections.
3. Next-gen Textiles - Projects like SaltyCo's innovative use of salt-tolerant plants as the main ingredient in functional fabrics highlight the potential for next-gen textiles that are both sustainable and functional.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - The fashion industry has an opportunity to revolutionize the use of sustainable materials, and brands that incorporate eco-friendly practices and materials into their collections may stand out in the market.
2. Textile Manufacturing - Innovative solutions like SaltyCo's sustainable fabrics provide opportunities for textile manufacturers to incorporate more eco-friendly practices and materials into their production processes.
3. Sustainability Consulting - As the demand for sustainable materials and practices increases, there may be opportunities for consultants to work with businesses to implement these practices and materials into their operations.