The material science division of the Taiwan-headquartered Alpine Group, Paradise Textileshas launched a new lightweight jacket made from bio-based and biodegradable polyester resin developed by the New York-based Kintra Fibers. Serving as a proof-of-concept, the garment showcases the commercial potential of Kintra’s sustainable alternative to conventional fossil-based polyester.

Collaborating with Fashion for Good and other leading brands, including Bestseller, Inditex, and Reformation, over a year-long project, Kintra previously developed prototype materials using its innovative resin. The resulting yarn offers strength and durability similar to traditional polyester but with enhanced softness and inherent stretch. It also offers 10-15 per cent stretch recovery with the material beingsuccessfully integrated into different fabric types, including silk-like satin, technical outerwear wovens, and air-jet and draw-textured knits.

Kintra’s resin production reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 95 per cent, water usage by 30 er cent and energy consumption by 20 per centas compared to conventional polyester.

Known for its end-to-end fashion delivery services, Alpine Group has previously collaborated with major brands like The North Face, Sweaty Betty, American Eagle Outfitters, Under Armour, and Gap.

Lewis Shuler, Head – Innovation, Paradise Textiles, emphasises, the company seeks fiber technologies that reduce carbon footprints and offer sustainable alternatives to fossil-based synthetics. The company collaboration with Kintra will help harness its potential to create diverse textiles as Kintra’s material meets environmental standards besides delivering additional performance benefits.

Billy McCall, CEO and Co-founder, Kintra, adds, Paradise Textiles’ expertise in fabric development has been crucial in bringing Kinfra’s vision to life and this new prototype confirms the viability of the company’s material.