Lagoped opts for regenerated nylon

Written by: Enora Gelot

|

|

Time to read 3 min

In the textile industry, sustainability has become a major concern for both consumers and brands. Faced with growing environmental challenges, the commitment to eco-responsible production has become a priority. Lagoped, concerned about the impact of its activities on the planet, has teamed up with ECONYL® to offer a more sustainable alternative to conventional nylon .

What is polyamide or nylon?

Nylon, an alternative to silk

Nylon, also known as polyamide, is a synthetic fiber derived from petrochemicals , introduced to the market in the 1930s as an alternative to silk. Asia-Pacific countries dominate the global polyamide production, while Europe also plays a notable role in this market. In 2013, the continent produced around 1.9 tonnes of polyamides, representing almost 25% of global production.

A highly appreciated material in the sports textile industry

Appreciated for its resistance and its resemblance to silk, nylon is widely used in the textile industry, particularly for the manufacture of sports clothing. Its ability to repel liquids makes it an ideal material for outerwear such as windbreakers, trench coats, parkas and sportswear. In addition to its waterproofness, nylon stands out for its fineness, lightness, high resistance and extensibility , allowing it not to shrink or deform easily. The manufacture of polyamide involves complex chemical processes, requiring the use of toxic products.

Nylon fibers are obtained from polymers, generating a solidification reaction before being stretched and washed to obtain fine and strong filaments. Nylon can be used alone or mixed with other synthetic or natural fibers, providing a variety of applications in the textile industry, including the manufacture of sportswear combined with a percentage of elastane for greater elasticity.

recycled nylon

Why choose recycled nylon?

The environmental impact of nylon production

The production of nylon, like all materials from petrochemicals, has a significant impact on the environment and health. This petroleum-derived polymer is not only responsible for greenhouse gas emissions , but its energy-intensive manufacturing process and use of harmful chemicals contribute to soil and water pollution . In addition, nylon textiles release microparticles during washing, thus polluting aquatic ecosystems. Faced with these environmental challenges, the European Union is imposing stricter standards for nylon manufacturing, but it is also crucial for consumers to turn to more sustainable alternatives.

Recycled nylon, an alternative with many advantages

Recycled nylon appears to be a promising solution for reducing the environmental impact of polyamide. Some brands, like Lagoped, now use recycled fibers such as ECONYL® regenerated yarn and post-consumer nylon waste. This approach promotes the reuse of existing materials, thus contributing to the preservation of natural resources and the reduction of waste.

However, nylon recycling remains an energy-intensive process and requires significant water consumption. In addition, it does not solve the problem of microparticles released during washing. To minimize these impacts, it is essential to use filters for washing machines, helping to prevent microplastic pollution . By adopting these measures, consumers can help support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly textile industry.

nylon fishing net lagoped econyl

What is ECONYL® nylon?

The ECONYL® brand, registered by the Italian company Aquafil , which has specialized in the manufacture of nylon for 50 years, represents a significant advance in the field of sustainable fashion. ECONYL® yarn is a 100% regenerated nylon fiber, made from pre- and post-consumer waste that pollutes the Earth , such as fishing nets, flooring and industrial plastics.


ECONYL® regenerated nylon is increasingly used in the responsible fashion industry, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. ECONYL® regenerated nylon is not only a solution to the waste problem, but it is also more effective when it comes to climate change. It reduces nylon's impact on global warming by 90% compared to petroleum-based material.


The ECONYL® nylon manufacturing process begins with the recovery of waste , which is then sorted and cleaned in order to recover all the nylon possible. Through a radical regeneration and purification process, nylon waste is recycled back to its original purity. This means that ECONYL® regenerated nylon is exactly the same as fossil-based nylon . ECONYL® yarn is then woven into fabrics and used to make durable clothing.

ECONYL® nylon thus represents an eco-responsible alternative for sports clothing, offering a sustainable solution in an area where alternatives in natural materials are still rare.

In conclusion, choosing recycled nylon for Lagoped clothing offers many benefits for both the environment and consumers. By opting for ECONYL® regenerated nylon, Lagoped is committed to a sustainability approach by contributing to the reduction of waste. The environmental benefits of this ecological alternative are undeniable: reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, preservation of natural resources and reduction of pollution of aquatic ecosystems. In addition, products made from ECONYL® regenerated nylon offer quality and performance equivalent to those of conventional nylon products, guaranteeing comfort and durability to users.

It is now essential for consumers to make informed choices when it comes to sports equipment and clothing. By favoring brands like Lagoped that integrate recycled materials into their production, consumers can help support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly textile industry. Additionally, by adopting simple actions such as using washing machine filters to reduce microplastic pollution, everyone can help preserve our planet for future generations. Together, let's choose sustainability and responsibility for a better future.