Bananatex®
Bananatex is the world’s first durable and technical fabric made entirely from naturally grown Abacá banana plants.
Production process
The Abacá banana plant is cultivated in the Philippine highlands. Once the stalks are cut off the plant, fibre is extracted, which is then spun into yarn. In the case of the All Black colourway yarn type, it is coloured using the yarn dyeing method. This process is more sustainable than the typical roll-dying method and is also certified to the highest standard (Oeko-Tex® Standard 100).
The yarn is then weaved and coated with beeswax. After assembly, the material is manufactured into a Banantex product.
Material properties
Bananatex is a circular alternative to synthetic fabrics. It is strong and durable while also remaining soft, lightweight and supple.
The Natural White colourway reflects the real colour of the fibres and is not dyed. Beeswax coating makes Bananatex® waterproof. The resulting fabric has a smooth and distinctive feel.
The fabrics are available in lightweight, medium-weight, and heavy-weight materials in various colours.
Availability
Design and development in Switzerland. Manufacturing across Asia.
Circular features
The Abacá banana plant is grown within a natural ecosystem of sustainable mixed agriculture and forestry. It requires no pesticides, fertilizers, or extra water, hence making it self-sufficient. These qualities have led to the reforestation of the area once eroded by monocultural palm plantations and enhanced the region’s biodiversity. The by-product leaves are left to decompose as a natural fertilizer.
Bananatex® fabric is Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold.
Raw Materials
- The Abacá Banana Plant
- Beeswax (for waterproofing)
Afterlife Plan
- The material is fully biodegradable.
Supplier
image source: © LAUSCHSICHT
