Lululemon introduces Packable Anorak made from recycled polyester

Lululemon is releasing its Packable Anorak, marking the brand’s first venture into enzymatically recycled polyester, developed in collaboration with Australian environmental technology startup, Samsara Eco.

The special edition jacket utilizes polyester crafted from a blend of eco-friendly technologies, including Samsara’s enzyme-based recycling and LanzaTech’s conversion of carbon emissions. Samsara’s method employs patented enzymes to break down synthetic blends, while LanzaTech transforms carbon emissions from industrial sites into polyester materials. Combining these techniques offers a fresh approach to polyester production.

Addressing the climate crisis, Paul Riley, CEO and founder of Samsara Eco, emphasized the significance of their enzymatic recycling technology, which repurposes fibers from old textiles to provide them with a new life. Collaborating with Lululemon on the Packable Anorak represents a commitment to disrupting the linear plastic economy and extending the lifespan of garments, thereby reducing textile waste.

The creation of the Packable Anorak involves utilizing various sources, including mixed plastic waste, Lululemon’s own end-of-life apparel, and converted carbon emissions, aligning with the brand’s goal of designing for circularity. Lululemon aims to transition all its products to preferred materials and solutions by 2030, emphasizing its dedication to sustainability.

Yogendra Dandapure, vice president of raw materials innovation at Lululemon, highlighted their ambition to expand these technologies throughout their entire supply chain, with the Packable Anorak serving as an initial step in this journey. As they continue to advance circularity, Lululemon seeks to inspire other industries to embrace more sustainable models.