On December 13, Eastman Naia Renew cellulosic fiber earned the prestigious Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainable practices. The GRS certification, managed by Textile Exchange, covers recycled content, chain of custody, social and environmental practices, and chemical restrictions. This acknowledgment, following an audit by independent certifying body SCS Global Services, encompasses the entire supply chain, emphasizing traceability, environmental principles, social requirements, chemical content, and labeling.
Claudia de Witte, Sustainability Leader for Eastman textiles, expressed pride in expanding Naia's certifications, stating, "Third-party certifications help us build our brand trustworthiness." The GRS certification aligns with Eastman's mission to provide sustainable textiles widely. In a significant development, Textile Exchange's Alternative Volume Reconciliation (VR2) policy, announced in June 2023, broadened the eligibility of chemical recycling technologies, including Eastman's carbon renewal technology.
This policy update is pivotal for Eastman, allowing its innovative molecular recycling technology to be audited for GRS certification. By incorporating gasification into the GRS, the global standard now facilitates a more comprehensive approach to sustainable textiles. Eastman's molecular recycling complements mechanical recycling, addressing challenges posed by hard-to-recycle waste materials, such as textiles affected by fiber blends, chemicals, and additives.
Naia Renew, made from 60% sustainably sourced wood pulp and 40% GRS-certified waste materials, showcases Eastman's patented molecular recycling technology. The certification verifies the chemical recycling processes, concentrating, extrusion, and spinning of undyed yarns and fibers, reinforcing Eastman's position as a leader in advancing circular materials and combating textile waste pollution.
