A collaborative effort with potentially substantial effects on the ecological footprint of everyday consumer goods has been established between biomaterial technology firm Genomatica and major nylon producer Aquafil, resulting in the creation of a new facility for demonstration-scale production.

Nylon-6 serves as a component in a wide array of products, ranging from items like toothbrush bristles and hosiery to robust industrial applications such as carpeting and durable textiles.

This material will facilitate the creation of products derived from renewable sources and provide examples of goods ready for commercialization as an increasing number of businesses strive to improve the environmental responsibility of their supply chains and minimize the adverse impacts of their products at their end-of-life stage.

This agreement signifies a 50-times increase in production capacity compared to Genomatica’s previous levels and marks a considerable advancement in the company’s overall capabilities.

The textile sector represents a $960 billion global industry, and it is recognized as one of the most environmentally damaging – both in terms of chemical processing and the release of greenhouse gases. Data referenced by the World Economic Forum indicates that the textile industry generates 1.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually, a figure comparable to that of the automotive industry. The production of nylon alone contributes approximately 60 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year, as stated by the involved companies.

This long-term agreement with Aquafil, a company based in Europe, builds upon the existing relationship between the two organizations. Earlier this year, they successfully produced the first ton of a bio-nylon-6 precursor material at a pilot scale. The transition to a demonstration-scale plant will now enable Genomatica to proceed with supply agreements with select brand collaborators.

Far Eastern New Century, a clothing manufacturer, currently incorporates Genomatica’s materials into its apparel, and the company reports that additional partnerships are currently being developed.

Genomatica’s financial backing comes from Casdin Capital, Viking Global Investors – who remain the company’s largest stakeholder – and organism engineering partner Ginkgo Bioworks.

“Bio-nylon is poised to substitute a material utilized in countless everyday applications,” explained Christophe Schilling, CEO of Genomatica. “Our investigations reveal that even amidst economic and health challenges, 56% of consumers in the United States still expect brands to prioritize sustainability. With this expanded capacity, Genomatica provides its brand partners with a crucial pathway to achieve their sustainability goals, distinguish themselves in the market, and respond to the growing consumer demand for eco-conscious products.”

Aquafil is constructing the facility in Slovenia, where Genomatica’s biologically-derived precursor material will be transformed into bio-nylon-6 yarns, films, and specialized plastics.