Alchemie unveils sustainable dyeing facility in Taiwan

Cambridge-based Alchemie Technology, a pioneer in clean digital textile dyeing, opened its first production and demonstration facility in Nantou, Taiwan. The facility focuses on eco-friendly dyeing of woven polyester fabrics.

Alchemie's Endeavour process uses minimal water and energy, resulting in an 85 per cent reduction in carbon emissions and a 95 per cent decrease in wastewater compared to traditional methods. This breakthrough comes after a decade of development and aims to eliminate pollution from textile dyeing.

The textile industry is a major polluter, projected to reach 2.5 gigatons of emissions by 2050 under current practices. Alchemie's solution is crucial to achieving net-zero emissions and preventing environmental damage.

The new facility is a stepping stone towards Alchemie's 2024 roadmap, which includes expanding the technology to cotton and polyester with elastane. Their Endeavour process offers a complete solution, from fabric intake to final dyed and softened output.

"With fashion's significant carbon footprint, there's a critical need for change," said Alchemie's CEO, Alan Hudd. "Our low-carbon dyeing technology aligns with the growing demand for sustainable practices."

Traditional dyeing uses large amounts of hot water and energy. Alchemie's innovation lies in its patented nozzle, which precisely applies dye with unmatched accuracy. "This facility positions us to partner with leading brands for a more sustainable future," Hudd concluded. "These partnerships will not only benefit businesses but also create a positive environmental impact."