To help reduce microplastic pollution associated with synthetic textiles, RÜTEX commits to promoting the adoption of naNea by OceanSafe, an innovative polyester designed to biodegrade in marine environments and soil. Through this initiative, RÜTEX aims to accelerate the adoption of naNea across the European textile value chain, engaging fibre producers, spinners, weavers, knitters, textile manufacturers and brands. According to testing conducted in accordance with ASTM D6691-17, naNea achieves more than 93% marine biodegradation within 99 days. In addition, naNea is compatible with PET recycling, offering opportunities for integration into existing recycling streams.
RÜTEX expects that during 2027 there will be a further significant increase in quantities and it will be supplying regular and large volumes of naNea fibres and yarns to the international markets. Hand in hand with this, RÜTEX commits to supporting at least 35 industrial partners in developing fabrics and products using this material by December 2027.