Lenzing has received further scientific proof of the biodegradability of its fibers. The Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) has confirmed that wood-based cellulosic fibers biodegrade in the ocean within a short period of time at the end of their life cycle, making them a better alternative to fossil-based fibers.

SIO compared the degradation processes of nonwovens made from fossil-based synthetic materials such as polyester with those of cellulosic materials such as Lenzing’s wood-based lyocell, modal and viscose fibers in specific scenarios – under various real oceanic conditions and controlled aquaria conditions. The results of these experiments are striking: while wood-based cellulosic fibers fully biodegraded within 30 days, the fossil-based fibers tested were practically unchanged after more than 200 days.

Lenzing provides wood-based specialty fibers. Its business model is one of a circular economy. Lenzing takes wood from sustainable forestry and uses a highly efficient system of processing all raw materials to produce fibers that are able to return to the ecosystem at the end of their life cycle. The group’s goal is to raise widespread awareness of major challenges such as plastic pollution and persuade the industry to make the transition to wood-based, biodegradable Tencel, Lenzing, Ecovero and Veocel fibers.