Safilo Group has partnered with synthetic fibre experts Aquafil to introduce Econyl-regenerated nylon to its eyewear collections.
Econyl-regenerated nylon is made with recycled plastic waste such as fishing nets, fabric scraps and old carpets. It features the same quality as newly-manufactured nylon, after going through a complex process of depolymerisation and re-polymerisation. Econyl can be recycled, recreated, and remoulded without losing its quality; thus closing the loop on eyewear production.
Safilo Group first introduced the Econyl material in Tommy Hilfiger’s recently-launched Tommy Jeans Eyewear collection. The eyewear group will follow this by progressively introducing the material to the other brands in its extensive portfolio.
The Tommy Hilfiger range marked the first time Econyl was used in the mass production of eyewear. According to the company, it is a testament to the progression of its sustainability strategy and responsible business practices.
“Our investment in using recycled materials highlights our continued efforts towards promoting a responsible business.” — Safilo Group CEO Angelo Trocchia
According to Safilo Group CEO Angelo Trocchia, the use of Econyl highlights the company’s efforts to promote sustainability and innovation within the eyewear industry. “Our investment in using recycled materials highlights our continued efforts towards promoting a responsible business,” he said.
Trocchia added, “This sustainable material will allow us to make our contribution and create products without using new resources. Our intention is to expand the use of Econyl as much as possible in order to decrease our carbon footprint.”
“Safilo has a long history of creating high-quality eyewear products, and we are happy to partner with such a strong player in the eyewear industry,” said Aquafil CEO Giulio Bonazzi. “It is a completely new sector in which our Econyl material is now used, and it is this pioneering spirit that most unites us with a company like Safilo, which, like us, has innovation in its DNA.”