Lenzing’s Glacier Protection Project Adds Circular Fashion Collaboration
Glaciers are crucial to many communities around the globe, serving as a water source and supporting biodiversity. As the planet warms due to carbon dioxide emissions, glaciers are at risk. According to the United Nations, glaciers are losing 58 billion tons of ice each year, and as they melt, glaciers are causing flooding and rising sea levels.
One action being taken to prevent the loss of glaciers is covering them with nonwoven textiles. However, the geotextiles typically used for this are made from synthetic—or plastic—materials that release microplastics and do not biodegrade. Lenzing Group has been testing the use of its wood-based fibers as a natural, biodegradable alternative to synthetics.
“As the climate emergency accelerates glacier melting, we are at a critical point requiring transformative change for global impact,” said Krishna Manda, vice president corporate sustainability at Lenzing. “Nature stimulates our creativity and inspires us to truly innovative ideas.”
The pilot project using Lenzing’s nonwoven fabrics on Stubai Glacier was found to have prevented four meters of ice from melting in a study by University of Innsbruck and the Austrian glacier lift operators on the glacier. After initial success on Stubai Glacier, Lenzing expanded the program to all of the glaciers in Austria that host tourists in 2023. Recognizing this work, Lenzing received first place in the Swiss BIO TOP Awards for wood and material innovations.
“We are delighted with the positive results and see the project as a sustainable solution for glacier protection – not only in Austria, but also beyond the country’s borders,” said Berndt Köll, emerging business development at Lenzing.
Typically, geotextiles only have a lifespan of two years, after which they would be disposed of. Lenzing is creating a circular stream for used geotextiles by recycling cellulosic nonwoven materials from glacier covers into fashion. Working with textiles group Marchi & Fildi Spa, which specializes in mechanical recycling, denim fabric manufacturer Candiani Denim and avant-garde fashion studio Blue of a Kind, Lenzing has created a Glacier Jacket that is fashionable as well as eco-friendly.
“This pioneering innovation project brings together trusted like-minded companies and partners across the supply chain, demonstrating the companies’ shared vision and commitment to the circular economy,” said Florian Heubrandner, executive vice president commercial textiles at Lenzing. “The collaboration is a testament to the power of partnership; driving innovation and sustainability, reducing environmental impact and encouraging collaborative action against climate change for global impact across in the textile industry.”
At the International Day of Forests event at the Palais des Nations conference center at the United Nations Office in Geneva, Switzerland, on March 21, Lenzing presented this initiative in a session titled “Glacial Threads: From Forests to Future Textiles.” Lenzing tapped Italian contemporary artist Michelangelo Pistoletto to help stage the initiative.
“As part of Lenzing’s ongoing commitment to intertwine innovation and sustainability, this pioneering project represents the balanced connection between technology and nature, showcasing collaborative circular sustainable practices whilst acting as a rallying call for collective action,” said Manda. “Together with our network of passionate industry experts, we can lead towards a substantial positive impact on our planet, safeguarding future generations. This project is an example to show the power of possibility when we collaborate together.”