How XDD Textile Uses TENCEL™ to Make Eco-Conscious, Comfortable Jeans
Since Vietnam’s XDD Textile opened its first mill in 2013 and first denim mill in 2019, sustainability has been a key priority. To that end, the mill is recycling materials, using solar and biomass energy, optimizing processes for efficiency and treating its water for reuse.
The mill, which specializes in denim with vintage looks and jeans that are laser friendly, will be opening a new spinning facility this year that will be focused on materials including Lenzing fibers. XDD uses the entire range of Lenzing textile fibers, including TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers, REFIBRA™ technology and ECOVERO™ viscose. For instance, Lenzing ECOVERO™ is part of the material composition of XDD’s 2nd Skin line that uses Lycra Adaptiv for stretchy denim that fits more bodies.
Wilson Li, marketing director for XDD Textile, caught up with Carved in Blue to discuss how the mill is working with TENCEL™ fibers and what’s next for the manufacturer.
Carved in Blue: What is the denim trend in focus? What are the essential elements for customers nowadays?
Wilson: Denim fabrics have always been a fashion classic, and now they are undergoing a new transformation. Modern consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental sustainability, and they seek products that are not only fashionable but also align with their environmental values. Therefore, we must incorporate more sustainable elements into our designs to meet customer demands.
Carved in Blue: What is the initiative to create this collection? What is the sustainable story behind it?
Wilson: The project we are collaborating on is based on a shared initiative to create a more sustainable collection of denim fabrics. We especially focus on minimizing cotton usage such as zero cotton concept, zero virgin cotton concept, etc.
We have partnered with Lenzing to incorporate their TENCEL™ fibers into our design concepts. TENCEL™ fibers are cellulose fibers made from natural wood pulp, known for their excellent sustainability and environmental characteristics. The production process of these fibers utilizes a solvent that is recycled, resulting in efficient water usage. Compared to conventional cotton, the water required for the production process of TENCEL™ fibers is significantly lower, reducing the demand for agricultural land and pesticides.
By incorporating TENCEL™ fibers into our designs, we can provide consumers with denim fabrics that offer superior moisture absorption, breathability, comfort, softness and durability. The use of TENCEL™ fibers also reduces the need for chemical dyes and dye assistants, thereby minimizing the environmental impact. Our goal is to create denim fabrics that are not only environmentally conscious but also provide comfort and style to consumers.
Carved in Blue: What is the sustainable roadmap of your company?
Wilson: XDD has been committed to promoting green production and recycling. We are improving our production processes, optimizing energy efficiency, and reducing waste and pollutants emissions. We are actively seeking more sustainable materials and technologies to continuously enhance the sustainability of our products.
Carved in Blue: What’s next for XDD?
Wilson: Moving forward, we will continue to strive for innovation and excellence. We will collaborate with industry-leading companies like Lenzing to introduce more sustainable products and solutions. We will remain attentive to market demands, constantly improving our products and services to meet customer expectations.
In addition, we recognize the importance of education and awareness to raise the knowledge and consciousness of our employees and consumers about sustainable development. We conduct internal training and awareness campaigns to encourage sustainable behaviors and choices.
Lastly, we sincerely invite all of you to visit our exhibition area and experience this innovative denim fabric firsthand. We believe that this collaboration will bring surprises and inspiration to you, while contributing to our shared sustainable development goals.