New Zealand-born outdoor brand Kathmandu has launched a new outdoor activewear range made using carbon recycling technology.
According to the brand, this technology transforms carbon emissions into yarn, which can be used to make products like clothing.
Kathmandu partnered with NZ-born global firm LanzaTech to capture carbon emissions from steel mills before they enter the atmosphere, then converting these emissions through a proprietary process to form yarn. Kathmandu then used this yarn, blended with recycled material, to construct several pieces in its new outdoor active range, including the men’s and women’s fleece jacket, quarter zip top, tee, tank, fleece joggers and loose shorts.
The brand added that percentages of fabric made using carbon recycling technology vary across individual products. In one example, Kathmandu’s Seeker Tank, Tee and Quarter Zip Top are made with 76.9 per cent responsible materials, including 67 per cent recycled polyester and 9.9 per cent polyester derived from carbon emissions.
“In-line with our B Corporation certification, Kathmandu continues to push the boundaries in sustainable product innovation within the Australian and New Zealand textile industry, seeking ways to reduce our climate impact,” Kathmandu GM of product Karinda Robinson said.
“By using LanzaTech carbon recycling technology, we are working to reduce our reliance on virgin fossil carbon to make new fabrics and support the recirculation of carbon-rich gases.
“Importantly too, we have ensured the use of carbon capture technology does not negatively impact the product’s performance. Consumers can expect a more sustainably made product, without having to forego functionality and performance, which we are very proud of.”
Kathmandu’s new outdoor active range also includes a rain jacket, tight shorts and leggings, crafted with Q-Cycle by Fulgar: fabric derived from recycled plastic waste, including end-of-life car tyres.