Carbios, a biotech firm that recycles PET plastics and polyester fibers using an enzymatic process, along with consortium partners including On, Patagonia, Puma, Salomon, and PVH Corp., has launched a white T-shirt made from enzymatically recycled polyester using discarded textiles.

The company reports that its bio-recycling technology breaks down polyester using enzymes into its fundamental building blocks (purified terephthalic acid and mono ethylene glycol), which are then polymerized, spun into yarn, and woven into new fabric. The process is claimed to handle complex materials, including cotton or elastane mixed blends and textiles with various treatments like durable water repellent and dye.

Analyst QuickTake: In April 2024 , Carbios announced the construction of a recycling plant in Longlaville, France. It claims the facility will receive EUR 54 million (USD 58.4 million) in grants from the French State and Grand-Est Region and will recycle up to 50,000 tons of PET waste each year using its enzymatic technology. It expects the plant to be fully operational by 2026.