UPM Biochemicals, in partnership with Vaude, a leading sustainable outdoor apparel supplier, aims to revolutionize the textile industry by producing eco-friendly outerwear made with bio-based chemicals. 

Their joint effort will introduce the world's first fleece jacket constructed from wood-based polyester, marking a significant stride towards closing the gap between recycled fibers and sustainable virgin fibers in the fashion industry. 

Traditionally, polyester resin contains 30% monoethylene glycol (MEG) derived from crude oil. However, UPM and Vaude 's innovative approach will entirely replace this component with a novel bio-monoethylene glycol called BioPura, developed by UPM. 

This drop-in solution seamlessly integrates into existing polyester manufacturing processes due to its molecular compatibility with conventional MEG. To bring this vision to life, a collaboration across the entire value chain is crucial. Indorama Ventures, a prominent chemical company, will polymerize and spin a polyester yarn containing UPM's BioPura BioMEG at its German facility in Guben. 

The resulting yarn will be processed by Pontetorto, a renowned textile manufacturer in Prato, Italy, to create a unique bio-based polyester fabric. Finally, VAUDE will utilize this fabric to craft the ultimate sustainable garment. 

VAUDE products are renowned for their timeless design, robust materials, and ease of repair. By incorporating UPM's bio-based materials, Vaude aims to unlock the potential of renewable circularity, prioritizing reduced resource consumption, renewable sourcing, and the ability to keep products in the value chain even after their useful life. 

The partnership between UPM Biochemicals and VAUDE signifies a significant step towards a future where sustainable fashion becomes the norm, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and minimizing environmental impact.