ReSuit Project introduces groundbreaking textile recycling techniques

The Danish Recycling Technologies and Sustainable Textile Product Design (ReSuit) project announces the development of two innovative recycling processes poised to revolutionize the textiles sector. The first breakthrough technique enables the recycling of polyester from textile to textile. Through a dissolving process, polyester is separated from color and additives, yielding recycled polyester suitable for incorporation into new textile products.

ReSuit’s second method addresses the challenge of recycling sophisticated garment waste, which is traditionally considered too complex for recycling. Known as hydrothermal liquefaction, this process utilizes heat and pressure to break down used garments, converting them into bio-oil. This bio-oil can then be refined into chemical building blocks for the production of naphtha and fuel.

The ReSuit initiative is led by the Danish Technological Institute in collaboration with partners such as the apparel brand Bestseller, commercial laundry provider Elis Denmark, environmental consulting firm Behave Green, and Design School Kolding. Additionally, the project benefits from the expertise of German researcher Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and recycling specialists at Aarhus University, with funding provided by Innovation Fund Denmark.

In conjunction with the ReSuit project, Bestseller has developed its Circular Design Guide, aimed at encouraging sustainable practices within its businesses and the wider textiles sector. Bestseller asserts that its brands are now promoting apparel aligned with the guidelines’ principles

Camilla Skjønning Jørgensen, innovation manager at Bestseller, emphasizes the company’s commitment to addressing challenges in the fashion industry through innovation. Jørgensen underscores the importance of transforming the industry into a more sustainable one and acknowledges Bestseller’s role in driving this change through initiatives like ReSuit.