Nike’s new material and production process called Nike Forward took over five years of research and development to create.

This is not a traditional knit or woven, but a completely new material that drastically reduces its carbon footprint.The athletics retailer created the material and process based on growing concerns from athletes that climate change is becoming a barrier to sports. Along with the benefit of a more energy-efficient production process, Nike Forward also has a lighter density compared to regular knit fleece.The grey hoodie and crew neck also feature raw cut pockets, no zippers, and zero water use or dyes in an effort to make them more suitable for recycling.

Nike calls this its most significant clothing innovation since Dri-Fit and believes this platform can do for apparel what Flyknit did for footwear.

Nike’s latest innovation demonstrates a fundamental issue the fashion world is dealing with. The pursuit of circular fashion models has come to the forefront as retailers look to scale back their impact.Brands are increasingly under pressure to change their impact, with some beginning to utilize recycling more.

Fruit of the Loom recently launched a limited edition T-shirt collection made of a recycled cotton blend. Anthropologie has launched a denim recycling program that rewards customers with a jeans discount.