APEC report says agro-industrial waste could replace synthetic dyes

An APEC report has found that agro-industrial waste could serve as an alternative to synthetic dyes in textile production, provided certain technical limitations are addressed. The study presents agricultural residues as scalable raw materials for biodegradable colourants and links farm by-products with industrial dyeing processes. It also proposes a circular framework designed to reduce wastewater pollution while creating transparent value chains between farmers and textile manufacturers.

The report highlights that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are well placed to adopt cleaner production methods, using techniques that range from traditional boiling to more advanced Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE). By building traceable and sustainable supply chains, APEC economies can strengthen agricultural resilience, support local producers and respond to the rising demand for environmentally responsible fashion.

The study also calls for closer integration between the textile value chain and local agriculture to reduce landfill waste and cut transport-related carbon emissions. It points to the EarthColors model as an example of how innovations can move from laboratory to commercial scale while maintaining shade consistency, repeatability and compliance with global organic standards.