TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color Technology Earns ITMF Innovation Award
So much of fashion’s appeal stems from color, and denim wouldn’t be denim without the blue hue of indigo. However, the dyeing process to create this color is often not very green, and has a huge impact on the environment.
Lenzing’s spun-dyed TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo technology fibers change up the coloration process to make it more eco-responsible. Instead of dyeing spun yarns, this modal adds indigo pigment into the production process, creating indigo dyed fibers.
We’re proud to share that the International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF)’s ITMF Awards 2022 has recognized TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo technology for the innovation’s impact on sustainability in denim. Lenzing was a recipient of ITMF’s Sustainability & Innovation Award, which seeks “to recognize sustainable and innovative achievements in the textile industry with focus on innovation, design, development, and production under the strictest standards of sustainability and respect for the environment.”
“At Lenzing, sustainability and innovation are key drivers of our business, and it is truly an honor to be recognized by industry players and the ITMF Awards,” said Florian Heubrandner, vice president global textiles business at Lenzing. “Through a blend of eco-responsible materials and pioneering technology, we created a new benchmark for the denim industry with TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color technology.
“We will continue to innovate our fiber offerings to address the rising demand for eco-responsible alternatives,” he added. “With each fiber innovation, we are one step closer to reducing environmental impact of our textile industry ecosystem.”
The fiber, which was designated BioPreferred by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and was certified with the EU Ecolabel, offers a 99 percent water and electricity savings, 80 percent chemical savings and 100 percent heat energy reduction.
Outside of its sustainability appeal, the fiber’s spun-dyed properties give it improved colorfastness. This opens indigo up to new categories including knits. Because it is devoid of harsh chemicals, it is also safe for baby goods such as clothing and bedding.
After it launched in 2021, TENCEL™ Modal with Indigo Color technology was quickly adopted by a number of denim mills as an alternative to traditionally indigo dyed yarns. The material helps tell a sustainability story, while also opening the door to new styles.
“While we continue to explore different washes, effects and fiber blends, we are open for innovation and what can be done,” said Tricia Carey, director of global business development denim and Americas, Lenzing. “Beyond the denim market there are already commercial programs in knitwear. With so many great minds and new ideas out in the market, this is an excellent opportunity to experiment with something new and lower the environmental footprint.”