Citizens of Humanity, Pili launch bio-indigo denim

Citizens of Humanity Group has partnered with Pili, a French biochemicals company specializing in sustainable dyes and pigments, to help decarbonize the color industry. On Monday Citizens of Humanity (COH) and Agolde, unveiled the first garments dyed with Pili’s Eco-Indigo, a bacteria-based alternative to petroleum-derived indigo.

Pili’s bio-indigo addresses the textile industry’s consumption of 2 million tons of dyes annually, with 99 percent being fossil-based. By combining industrial fermentation and green chemistry, Pili reduces harmful chemicals, cuts fossil fuel dependency, and lowers CO₂ emissions by up to 50 percent compared to traditional indigo dyeing methods.

The process begins with genetically engineered bacteria that produce pigments. These microbes are cultivated in tanks and fed carbon-based materials, like sugar, to synthesize the dye. After fermentation, the dye is separated from the bacteria through a simple filtration process. This innovative biotechnology ensures scalable, cost-effective dye production without compromising quality.

Recent Posts

Triarchy launches collection with WTRLSS dyeing technology

Triarchy has launched its first collection using WTRLSS digital dyeing technology, which can reduce water consumption in dyeing and finishing…

2 days ago

DNM Denim develops zero-water finishes and bio-based blends

DNM Denim is introducing advanced finishing techniques and alternative fibre blends in its SS 28 collection, with a focus on…

2 days ago

Polestar 5 Electric GT uses Bcomp’s flax-based composites

Bcomp has partnered with vehicle manufacturer Polestar to incorporate its lightweight, bio-based materials into the Polestar 5 four-door electric grand…

2 days ago

Outerknown expands Woolaroo collection with recycled fleece

Outerknown has expanded its Woolaroo collection for Fall 2026, introducing fleece garments made with MWool recycled wool from textile manufacturer…

3 days ago

Pontetorto wins award for wood-based polyester fleece

Pontetorto has received the Performance Days Eco Award for its Fleece 6140/Biobased, a polyester microfleece incorporating wood-derived feedstock.

3 days ago

Researchers break down PFAS using UV-based treatments

Researchers have investigated the chemical reactions involved in breaking down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances using ultraviolet light and sulfite.

3 days ago