Unifi launches biodegradable Repreve with Ciclo tech to cut microplastic pollution

Unifi, a leading producer of recycled and synthetic yarns, has launched Repreve with Ciclo technology a biodegradable solution aimed at tackling microplastic pollution from synthetic textiles. The new offering debuted at the Functional Fabric Fair in Portland and is available globally.

Developed in collaboration with Intrinsic Advanced Materials, a joint venture between Parkdale Advanced Materials and Intrinsic Textiles Group, this innovation enables polyester and nylon fibers to break down naturally when exposed to moisture and microbes. This helps reduce the long-term environmental impact of synthetic microfibers.

Eddie Ingle, CEO of Unifi, said the collaboration tackles the global problem of microfiber shedding by providing a scalable solution that mills, brands, and retailers can immediately adopt. Repreve with Ciclo is compatible with both filament and staple forms of polyester and nylon. It is available across Unifi’s entire Repreve product line, including Repreve Takeback and Repreve Our Ocean.

Cheryl Smyre, VP of Parkdale Advanced Materials, highlighted the importance of industry-wide collaboration to address synthetic microfiber pollution, noting that the initiative merges Repreve’s recycled content with Ciclo’s biodegradability to target the problem at its origin. Brands like Target, Champion, Billabong, and Bass Pro Shops have already incorporated Ciclo technology into their sustainable product lines.