Eastman has partnered with C.L.A.S.S. (Creativity Lifestyle And Sustainable Synergy), based in Italy, to support the fashion industry’s shift toward a circular economy. Eastman, a specialty materials provider, is the maker of the sustainably sourced cellulosic yarn Naia.

With Naia, Eastman integrates sustainability and fashion in a way that supports the circular economy by providing designers with a viable eco-conscious choice of material. Class empowers global partners to take steps toward a circular economy.

Eastman demonstrated its dedication to sustainability by showcasing the sustainable production process of Naia – from responsibly sourced wood to end of life. Naia is made with wood sourced from sustainably managed pine and eucalyptus plantations and forests and has recently been certified as biodegradable in freshwater.

In developing Naia, Eastman takes into account the entire lifecycle, from responsible sourcing to end-of-life disposal. The yarn is produced in a closed-loop production process where safe solvents and water are recycled and reused, ensuring a low tree-to-yarn carbon and water footprint.

Naia has a smaller environmental impact than fibers such as generic modal, triacetate and viscose. Naia is a best-in-class example of responsible innovation, because it is sustainably sourced and has inherent luster and a silky hand that create comfortable, luxurious fabrics.