Lululemon partners with Genomatica to introduce bio-nylon into products

Lululemon today announced a multi-year collaboration with sustainable materials leader Genomatica to introduce renewable bio-based materials into lululemon’s products
.
This is lululemon's first-ever equity investment in a sustainable materials company and Genomatica's largest collaboration in retail
.
The two companies will work together to create a plant-based nylon with a lower environmental impact to replace conventional nylon, the synthetic material currently used most in the manufacture of lululemon products
.

Genomatica uses biotechnology and fermentation technology to convert plant components into widely used chemical feedstocks, such as those used to make nylon
.
These raw materials are converted into pellets and yarns, and the two companies will work closely with lululemon's fabric supply chain to incorporate this material into future products
.
Through this collaboration, the two companies seek to create positive change in the $22 billion global nylon market by building a more sustainable supply chain
.

Calvin McDonald, CEO of lululemon, said, "Our partnership and investment with Genomatica demonstrates our commitment to being a leader in creating products that help build a healthier future for ourselves, our communities and our planet.

Genomatica's Bio-based innovations, along with their unique track record of successful commercial applications, will help us achieve our Impact Agenda goal of using 100% sustainable materials and end solutions in our products by 2030 as we move towards a circular ecosystem
.
"

Christophe Schilling, CEO of Genomatica, said: “We are proud to partner with lululemon, which is taking meaningful action to help solve our climate crisis
.
The combination of biotechnology, fermentation and renewable feedstocks can provide a strong A powerful means to disrupt the apparel industry through sustainable sourcing
.
This unique collaboration will help meet growing consumer demand for greener products and set an example for consumer brand owners around the world
.
”

"Replacing the petrochemicals that make up many popular materials with more sustainable alternatives is an important step in achieving our impact agenda goals," said Patty Stapp, vice president of raw materials at lululemon
.
"By transitioning our nylons to renewable components, we will impact More than half of the synthetic materials used in our supply chain
.
We have seen Genomatica successfully deliver industry-changing bio-based materials on a commercial scale many times over and believe this partnership can truly change the way we source our products while continuing to deliver The excellent quality we are known for
.
"

In October 2020, lululemon first released its Impact Agenda, outlining ambitious social and environmental goals and a multi-year strategy for a more equitable, sustainable and healthy future
.
The partnership with Genomatica is one of many ways lululemon is bringing new, sustainable innovations to its raw materials
.
Other examples include the company's partnership with Mylo, which uses mycelium-based leather, and LanzaTech, which makes polyester using recycled carbon emissions
.