Kvadrat launches recycled polyester textile with designer Teruhiro Yanagihara

Kvadrat, a renowned textile brand, has made significant strides in sustainable fashion by introducing Ame, its first ‘textile-to-textile’ recycled polyester fabric. Unlike traditional recycled polyester, which is often derived from plastic bottles, Ame is produced from discarded textile waste.

To achieve this, Kvadrat employs a chemical recycling process known as depolymerization. This technique breaks down polyester into its molecular building blocks, which are then reassembled to create high-quality, virgin-like polyester. The resulting fabric, designed in collaboration with renowned designer Teruhiro Yanagihara, showcases a delicate, hand-stitched aesthetic inspired by traditional Japanese textile techniques.

While chemical recycling offers promising solutions for reducing textile waste, it also raises concerns about energy consumption and potential environmental impact. Kvadrat acknowledges these challenges but remains committed to advancing sustainable practices and reducing reliance on virgin materials.

Ame's nomination for the Material Innovation category of the Dezeen Awards 2024 highlights its potential to revolutionize the textile industry and inspire a more circular approach to fashion.