Bangladeshi textile recycling mill, Cyclo is expanding its closed-loop production approach by launching a collection of sustainable denim fabrics.

Launched at the Kingpins Amsterdam in October 2024, the Cyclo Denim fabric range comprises blends of upto 95 per cent Cyclo recycled cotton. These include a 95 per cent recycled cotton with 5 per cent recycled polyester fabric, and a 90 per cent recycled cotton with 10 per cent Tencel lyocell blend, designed for improved hand feel and enhanced recyclability.

To address the denim industry's demand for stretch fabrics, Cyclo integrates recycled cotton in the warp and pairs it with spandex-containing yarn in the weft. This approach achieves over 50 per cent recycled cotton content, even in stretch garments. Cyclo’s yarn production accommodates various counts to create light and heavy-weight fabrics.

Mustafain Munir, President, Cyclo, highlights the environmental benefits of their process, which avoids water, dyes, and chemicals by using mechanical recycling. The company invests in customised machinery and advanced processes to extend fiber length, a key challenge in achieving high recycled content. The company makes collaborative efforts with mills, laundries, and designers to refine the product’s ability to endure denim’s rigorous washing and finishing processes.

To emphasise on the importance of achieving virgin-like quality, the company collaborated with Dreüss Worldwide, a Dhaka-based design and virtual manufacturing firm, to develop its debut collection.

Currently producing 200 tons of fiber monthly in Bangladesh, Cyclo plans to expand operations to Pakistan by 2025. To set new benchmarks in sustainable denim production, the company aims to double its denim recycling capacity in 2025.