In This Article:
Arkema, a provider of specialty materials, has launched a new line of Encor, which is a bio-based, waterborne dispersions product that is designed for textile printing as well as finishing applications. The company said the binders contain up to 30 percent bio-based content and up to 40 percent carbon footprint reduction compared to traditional textile resins, and “are supporting the textile industry’s efforts to decrease their product’s carbon footprint, supporting a more sustainable lifestyle.”
The rollout of the new product follows several milestones for the company in 2024 as it works toward contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy.
More from WWD
Hélène Pernot, global sustainability marketing director of coating solutions at Arkema, said with the textile value chain “being responsible for 6 to 8 percent of the worldwide emissions, [and] with increasing demand, there is an important need to transform and reduce the carbon footprint of the sector. Bio-based solutions set the stage for the next generation of more sustainable textile products, supporting our customers to achieve their sustainability and carbon reduction goals.”
“Arkema’s approach encompasses the entire life cycle,” said Patricia Beurdeley, global market manager, of nonwovens and textile coating solutions at Arkema. “From safer product, such as formaldehyde and APEO-free formulations that comply with Oeko-Tex Eco Passport standards and/or are suitable for food contact to the use of renewable and lower carbon feedstocks.
“We also focus on end-of-life management, with work to enhance the biodegradability of our future grades, extending durability, as well as improving color solidity and washing resistance,” Beurdeley added.
Last week Arkema revealed that it has joined the Ellen MacArthur Foundation as a network member “to strengthen its commitment and accelerate its transition to a circular economy.” The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is an international nonprofit focused on promoting the circular economy. Its goal is to reduce waste and pollution while regenerating nature.
“We are delighted to be joining the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Network to progress toward a more circular business, working with other network organizations to drive industrywide change,” said Emmanuelle Bromet, vice president of sustainable development at Arkema. “Through this commitment, Arkema will contribute more actively to the transformation of value chains toward circular business models, which will keep products in use longer and reduce waste.”