Pilot project targets elastane recycling barrier

Elastane is used in approximately 80 percent of clothing to provide stretch and comfort. It is typically added in concentrations ranging from one to five percent by weight in cotton or wool garments and up to 20 percent in polyester or polyamide garments. As a fossil-based material, elastane contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and the use of non-renewable resources. In addition, even low concentrations of elastane can interfere with established textile recycling processes. In fibre-to-fibre recycling streams for high-volume materials such as polyester and cotton, elastane can act as a contaminant, limiting recyclability and reducing the quality of secondary raw materials. As a result, many blended textiles are currently downcycled or disposed of.