Japan-based polyester fiber manufacturer Teijin Fibers Ltd. and England-based marine and lifestyle apparel brand Henri Lloyd have entered into a collaboration to launch the first program worldwide for the collection and recycling of used marine apparel. The program revolves around Teijin Fibers' Eco Circle™ eco-friendly closed-loop recycling system; and includes its Eco Storm® recyclable, waterproof and breathable fabric made from recycled polyester fibers and laminated with a polyester film, and Henri Lloyd's 2010 Blue Eco Range of sailing wear that will feature Eco Storm fabrics.

Under the program, Henri Lloyd stores and partners in the United Kingdom, United States, Europe, Australia and Japan will collect used Blue Eco garments from their customers and send them to Teijin Fibers' Matsuyama plant in Japan, where they will undergo chemical decomposition and conversion into virgin-quality polyester raw material, and from that into Eco Circle fibers for use in new recyclable products.

"We are very pleased that Henri Lloyd, a leader in technical marine clothing, has joined our Eco Circle program to help advance environmental protection," said Norio Kamei, president and CEO, Teijin Fibers. "Eco Circle is an innovative system that employs unprecedented chemical recycling technology to enable repeatable recycling of used products with no qualitative deterioration. We are delighted with the launch of Blue Eco Range and look forward to working closely with Henri Lloyd to contribute to recycling-oriented sustainability."

Paul Strzelecki, joint chief executive, Henri Lloyd, added: "We not only aim to significantly reduce CO2 emissions into the environment but also want to provide our customers with an opportunity to actively participate in the mission to help preserve our oceans. We look forward to further developments in this area, and hope the 'infinite loop' recycling system will set the course for the future of marine clothing manufacturing."

November 18, 2009