Visit Birla Cellulose at PV to Explore Innovations for a Sustainable and Circular Future

SJ Studio
·4 min read

Birla Cellulose has gone full “green” in its approaches to man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF)—embedding sustainability into all its fiber innovations and always keeping environmental responsibility at the forefront.

Birla Cellulose, a division of India-based Aditya Birla, operates 12 sites for pulp and fiber manufacturing that apply environmentally efficient closed-loop technologies including recycled materials and enhanced conservation of natural resources. Its five global advanced research centers are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and pilot plants, and the company’s commitment to sustainability bears out in three initiatives: circular denim, bamboo rayon fabric and circular yarn blends.

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Sustainability has become an undeniable imperative in the landscape of contemporary business, as industries grapple with the colossal adverse impact that their practices can have on the environment, our planet, and humanity at large. Nowhere is this more evident than in the global textile industry, a sector that has long been associated with significant environmental challenges. It is within this context that the collaboration between Usha Yarn and Birla Cellulose takes center stage, introducing a transformative range of highly sustainable mechanically recycled yarn blends under the resonant brand name “Puneh.”

“Puneh,” derived from Sanskrit, holds a profound meaning—it signifies “again.” This nomenclature encapsulates the essence of a new beginning for recycled fashion yarn, a venture that aspires to weave a fresh narrative for the industry. The innovative Puneh recycled yarns are a testament to the possibilities that arise when recycled textile waste is harmoniously blended with sustainable cellulosic fiber sourced from Birla Cellulose. This marriage of materials not only heralds a paradigm shift in fashion but also signals a commitment to eco-conscious living, all without compromising on the crucial facets of quality and design.

To achieve this, Birla Cellulose combines up to 50 percent of mechanically recycled yarns, consisting of pre- or post-consumer waste, with another 50 percent of highly sustainable man-made fibers. Other initiatives include waterless dyeing techniques, energy-efficient methods and responsible chemical usage. Circular denim also pushes the company to upcycle old garments into premium yarns, setting a precedent for sustainable fashion.

Bamboo rayon

Recently, Birla Cellulose has turned to bamboo—nature’s regenerative superstar and the fastest growing plant on the planet—for its superior qualities and dedication to sustainability.

Birla Viscose Ecosoft, launched September 2023, is a new variant of viscose, made exclusively from bamboo pulp sourced from sustainably managed bamboo forests and backed up by FSC certification. Offering enhanced performance, comfort and fashion options, Birla EcoSoft touts exceptional breathability that aids in thermo-regulation, moisture management that is higher than traditional bamboo, as well as a lightweight and velvety drape that makes it an optimal choice for fashion garments.

For an added layer of transparency, Birla Viscose Ecosoft is embedded with a molecular tracer that allows the value chain to trace the supply chain journey through the company’s GreenTrack platform.

Circular yarn blends

Mechanical recycling has always had its challenges, notably strength and durability of the resulting fibers. Birla Cellulose, however, has come up with a solution to create stronger blends. The company’s Circular Yarn Blend mixes mechanically recycled fibers with Birla Cellulose’s proprietary cellulosic fibers. The resulting, ground-breaking yarn blend contains 50 percent pre or post-consumer waste and maintains high-tensile strength suitable for various fabric and garment productions. To promote transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain and offer full confidence to all partners and consumers, the company has incorporated blockchain technology.

Through circular denim, bamboo rayon fabric and circular yarn blends, Birla Cellulose has created versatile, sustainable alternatives, leading by example how to set a precedent for responsible practices and transform the textile industry into a more conscious ecosystem.

Such efforts have not gone unnoticed, either. Canopy’s Hot Button Report has awarded Birla Cellulose the top spot for its commitment to conserving ancient and endangered forests and promoting circular solutions. This ‘green shirt’ designation is based on “the number of buttons allocated to producers based on their work,” and highlighting MMCF producers who are eliminating the risks related to biodiversity loss and deforestation in their supply chain. The recognition in Canopy’s report highlights the company’s consistent progress in implementing environmentally friendly business practices.

In addition to Canopy, Birla Cellulose also works with Fashion for Good and Circular Fashion Partnership to contribute to value chain sustainability.

Experience Fibers at PV

No matter how technically innovative or sustainable the various Birla Cellulose fibers are, one still needs to experience them in person for the hand feel and to see examples of their integration into finished garments.

To enhance the experience, Birla Cellulose will be exhibiting at Premiere Vision Paris from February 6-8 in booth #6D96. The company will have a broad variety of fabric and garment samples on hand at the stall. Additionally, their trend book will guide brands looking for the latest styles.

To learn more about Birla Cellulose’s sustainable fibers, visit them at Premier Vision Paris from 6th to 8th February on stall no. 6D96. Click here to register with them.