In Taiwan, Taipei Times reports Seawool, a fabric made from discarded oyster shells and recycled plastic, is generating NT$200 million annually and gaining popularity among sustainable fashion brands in Europe and the US. Known for its temperature-regulating properties and wool-like texture, Seawool has become a sought-after material for outdoor and eco-conscious clothing lines.
Developed by Eddie Wang’s Creative Tech Textile company in Tainan, Taiwan, Seawool is the result of a process that transforms oyster shell waste into a valuable resource. The idea originated from Wang’s childhood memories in Yunlin County, where locals used burnt oyster shells as insulation. Determined to repurpose the waste in a modern, eco-friendly way, Wang began experimenting in 2013.
Wang’s factory processes 100 tonnes of shells annually, turning them into 900 tonnes of fabric by grinding the shells into nano beads and mixing them with recycled plastic. The production method is waterless, reducing its environmental footprint, and the shells, which absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, contribute to a low-carbon product.
Seawool not only solves Taiwan’s problem of managing 160,000 tonnes of discarded shells each year but also showcases the country’s innovative approach to creating sustainable products from local resources.
Tags: oyster shells, Seawool, Taiwan
Category: Fuels
