AlgiKnit, a leader in biomaterials and maker of eco-conscious yarns derived from mostly seaweed, announced today the opening of its innovation hub in The Research Triangle area of North Carolina. The company will begin pilot projects with global brands from the new space in early 2022. AlgiKnit has spent the last four years developing brand new technology to produce yarns on a commercial scale to meet the growing demand for carbon-neutral, toxic-free textiles. With the technology in place, AlgiKnit’s new facility will house the company’s R&D, manufacturing, and business development teams under one roof and allow the company to scale quickly to help the global fashion industry decrease its carbon emissions by half. To mark this milestone, AlgiKnit released a first look at its kelp-based yarn.
Photo – AlgiKnit ©
A 2021 report from the World Economic Forum identified fashion, and its supply chain, as the planet’s third-largest polluter—around two-thirds of a garment’s carbon footprint comes from the production of synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon. These non-renewable fibres are primarily derived from fossil fuels—namely crude oil. In fact, roughly 342 million barrels of oil are used each year in the production of synthetic fibres.
AlgiKnit is transforming the fashion ecosystem by creating yarns derived mostly from kelp, one of the most renewable and regenerative organisms on the planet. The company’s yarns are built with function and accessibility in mind to provide a scalable and sustainable alternative for designers, manufacturers and consumers looking for materials with a significantly lower environmental footprint than conventional textiles. AlgiKnit’s versatile yarns can be used across the industry to create footwear, accessories, and garments.
“We know consumers need more cost-competitive, environmentally-sound material options that perform as well as conventional materials,” said Aaron Nesser, co-founder and CTO of AlgiKnit. “The yarn we’re producing today has the look and feel of the natural fibres consumers are familiar with, plus all the makings of a no-compromise conscious material.”
To create the next generation of eco-conscious and ethical materials, and to meet the growing demand of hundreds of global brands seeking to use AlgiKnit materials, the company saw a momentous opportunity in expanding its facility beyond its headquarters in Brooklyn, New York.
The Research Triangle area’s rich history of textile manufacturing and the close proximity to numerous research and testing facilities will allow the company to accelerate and sustain its growth with access to unmatched expertise and cutting-edge technology in the area.
“North Carolina’s Research Triangle area is becoming a hub for big tech and life sciences, and we look forward to collaborating with other companies focused on scientific innovation and disruption,” said Aleksandra Gosiewski, co-founder and COO of AlgiKnit. “We’re also excited for the opportunity to tap into the deep and diverse pool of talent and knowledge in the area to strengthen our scientific and engineering divisions.”
