A large part of the battle to make fashion a place where one can utter the word sustainability without being ashamed of it is fought in one specific area: the search for innovative materials. Because materials, for the most part, represent the condition of the sustainability of a garment or accessory or footwear.
It takes forward-thinking companies investing in research and development like Lenzing and NFW. They recently unveiled a new material, MIRUM® with TENCEL™ fibers, which is completely plastic-free and traceable every step of the way, all the way to the finished product.
We know that in order to make a product that can be described as truly sustainable, there are many factors that must be taken into consideration. Certainly, some of the most crucial aspects to consider concern the raw materials from which they are made and what happens to them once the consumer decides to get rid of the product. Here then, that of MIRUM® x TENCEL™ we will consider these two main aspects before deciding whether they can actually be considered an interesting range of materials.
THE TENCEL™ FIBERS
Lenzing has partnered with NFW (Natural Fiber Welding Inc.) to offer TENCEL™ brand fibers as another support option for NFW’s patented plant-based technology, MIRUM®. The MIRUM® x TENCEL™ collaboration is a unique class of materials ideal for luxury accessories, fashion and footwear.
TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers are derived from sustainable wood sources and produced using environmentally responsible processes. The fibers are identifiable, verifiable and traceable thanks to Lenzing’s Fiber Identification technology, which allows the origin of the fibers to be physically traced at different stages of production. This ensures full traceability of fibrous materials used during the production process, whether on a piece of fabric or a finished product, such as garments or footwear.
WHAT MIRUM® IS
If Tencel™ sounds like a highly sustainable material, what about MIRUM®? Completely plastic-free, MIRUM® is made from natural rubber, plant and mineral pigments, plant-derived oils and waxes, and an all-natural fabric backing. In addition, instead of relying on PU binders, a feature of most leather alternatives, MIRUM® uses natural rubber and vegetable oils for binding. NFW’s unique approach incorporates a variety of natural ingredients such as bio-based charcoal, clay, cork powder, rice husk, coconut fibers, recycled denim, or seaweed to develop color or add visual interest.
THE END OF LIFE OF MIRUM® x TENCEL™
At the end of the life cycle, products made with MIRUM® can be recycled into new MIRUM® or milled and returned to the earth, while TENCEL™ fibers are compostable and biodegradable, allowing for complete circularity of finished products. MIRUM® is an ideal option for designers and brands looking to reduce their environmental impact and expand their creative palette. TENCEL™ fibers are soft and pleasant on the skin, with exceptional moisture management. The addition of TENCEL™ fiber backing material to MIRUM® not only creates a truly sustainable option, but also improves the comfort level of products.
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