Sustainable Fabric: Bananatex®

Bananatex® is the world’s first durable, natural, biodegradable, technical and sustainable fabric made purely from the naturally grown Abacá banana plant Highlands fibers (also known as Manila hemp). Cultivated in the Philippine Highlands (as part of a sustainable forestry project in Catanduanes) within a natural ecosystem of sustainable mixed agriculture and forestry, the plant is self-sufficient, unlike cotton and some other natural fibers like cotton, requires no pesticides, fertilizer, or extra water. These qualities have allowed it to contribute to reforestation in areas once eroded due to monocultural palm plantations, whilst enhancing biodiversity and the economic prosperity of its farmers.

Three years of research and development resulted in a new material that answers questions of environmental, economic, and social sustainability. As an open source project Bananatex® offers a truly circular alternative to the synthetic fabrics that dominate the market today.

Since its launch in October 2018 Bananatex® has won a variety of international sustainability and design awards such as the Green Product Award 2019, the Design Prize Switzerland Award 2019/20 as well as the German Sustainability Award Design 2021.

THE FOUNDERS
Bananatex® was developed by Swiss bag brand and material innovators QWSTION in collaboration with a yarn specialist and a weaving partner, both based in Taiwan. Engaged in the multi-year development and production process behind the new sustainable fabric, the three parties united with the ambition to make a positive impact on the planet’s future.

Another major step was taken in December 2021 when the Bananatex® fabric was Cradle to Cradle Certified® Gold, the most advanced standard globally for products that are safe, circular and responsibly made. This acknowledgment affirms Bananatex®’s commitment to protect the natural environment and support the communities the brand engages with.