Lululemon Invests in Bio-Based Nylon to Clean Up Its Leggings

Lululemon, the brand that helped turn leggings into everyday wear, is doubling down on its commitment to cleaner materials—but it’s hitting a snag with nylon. According to Forbes contributor Olivia Pinnock, the company’s signature products like the Align and Wunder Train leggings rely heavily on nylon, a fiber still largely made from fossil fuels. While Lululemon has made solid progress with recycled polyester and responsibly sourced cotton, only 6% of its nylon comes from recycled sources—and none yet from renewables.

That could soon change. Lululemon has just announced an expanded partnership with California biotech company ZymoChem to develop a bio-based version of adipic acid, a key ingredient in nylon. The move is part of the brand’s wider plan to hit its 2030 target of using 100% preferred materials, which include options with better environmental or social impacts.

ZymoChem’s breakthrough? A fermentation-based process that conserves carbon and could rival the cost of fossil-fuel production at scale. “We’re really hoping that our technology has widespread applications, starting with the textile space with Lululemon,” ZymoChem CEO Harshal Chokhawala told Pinnock.

This isn’t Lululemon’s first foray into alternative nylons. The company is also working with Samsara Eco on enzymatic recycling and Geno on other bio-nylon blends. Together, these partnerships could pave the way for a circular, lower-impact future—though timelines remain vague.

So while bio-based nylon isn’t biodegradable, it is a major step toward ditching petroleum-based synthetics. The planet—and your yoga Pants—will thank you.

If you love leggings but hate the fossil fuel footprint, now’s the time to rethink your wardrobe. Support brands investing in animal-free, lower-impact materials and help push the fashion industry toward a more sustainable future.

Video Source: CBC News: The National/Youtube

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