Startup creates sustainable fabric dyes using seaweed

SeaDyes, a startup based in Scotland, is pioneering the use of seaweed as a natural source for fabric dyes, aiming to help fashion and textiles manufacturers enhance sustainability and reduce their reliance on petrochemical-based colorants.

SeaDyes is currently in discussions with potential investors and partners in the fashion industry, including a luxury Scottish cashmere brand. Their goal is to further develop their biobased product and make it a staple in clothing production.

Founded last year through a collaboration between the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) and Jessica Giannotti, the marine scientist behind Crùbag, SeaDyes successfully extracted colored pigments from seaweed during a research project. They began with a vibrant magenta color and have since tested the dye on various natural fibers to assess its performance.

Synthetic dyes, typically derived from fossil fuels, contribute to pollution and climate change. SeaDyes’ natural dyes offer a more environmentally friendly alternative, potentially leading to a more circular fashion industry where garments made with seaweed-based dyes and natural fabrics can biodegrade at the end of their life cycle.