Repreve produces the largest amount of fibers in the world from recycled materials, predominantly plastic bottles. Compared to making new or virgin fibers, Repreve offsets using raw materials like petroleum to emit fewer greenhouse gases and conserve water and energy in the process. 

Quite frankly, it’s the best solution for our current situation. The utilization of synthetic fabrics always had its downside but currently takes up more then 55% of global textile production. While using natural fibers like cotton, tencel, or bamboo does have its upsides, the way to produce, dye, and process these natural fibers is much more complex. As we are heavily dependent on both synthetic and natural fibers, it is crucial we find a good balance between the two and minimize environmental impacts in both sectors. 

Ultimately, if we need to wear synthetics, a good solution would be to use fabrics made with recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While recycled PET fabrics are made from plastics, it does allow us to avoid creating virgin fibers and repurpose waste that inhibits our oceans and landfills. 

By using Repreve, we use less water and energy than it would to create virgin polyester. Most studies show less energy is used to create recycled polyester with the added benefit of lower CO2 emissions. According to 2020 Unifi internal data, production of recycled polyester uses approximately 44% less energy, 16% less water, and emits 29% less greenhouse gas.

Source: Unifi, LLC

Source: Unifi, LLC

By using Repreve, Epiona’s goal is to create sustainable medical wear so healthcare professionals not only have garments optimized to help their patients, but also to help save our planet. Instead of creating new waste, let's repurpose what we already have and clean up our oceans and landfills! 

To learn more about Repreve and see other brands that use them, visit:

https://repreve.com/discover