Recycled polyester takes center stage in achieving sustainable textiles

A recent report by Textiles Intelligence highlights the crucial role of recycled PET polyester (FFrPET) in creating a circular textile industry. While polyester use is expected to boom, large-scale projects are underway to establish robust FFrPET production.

Major players like Eastman, Suez, and Indorama are leading the charge with innovative recycling plants boasting impressive capacities. These facilities utilize various technologies, including methanolysis, depolymerization, and enzymatic bio-recycling, to transform plastic waste into high-quality recycled polyester.

The report emphasizes the advantages established companies hold over startups in building a workable circular system. Their size, funding, and operational scale enable faster progress.

Examples include Eastman tripling its recycling capacity by 2026, Suez and SKGC's joint venture for infinite-cycle PET resins, and Indorama and Carbios' collaboration on a bio-recycling plant.

Furthermore, Andritz Group is actively involved in mechanical recycling projects, while Inditex partners with Ambercycle to support their innovative chemical recycling process. These advancements signal a significant shift towards a more sustainable textile industry.