Two Scandinavian companies that share a mission of sustainability–Finish fiber firm Spinnova and Norwegian outdoor brand Bergans–have launched the Collection of Tomorrow, a circular, subscription-based takeback and reuse concept.
The collection’s first prototype product is a sustainably designed backpack, and the collaborators are involving consumers in the research and development process. A limited number of consumers can now subscribe to the Collection of Tomorrow and become test users for the backpack.
Later in the product lifecycle, Bergans can take the item back and Spinnova can turn the same fabric into new fiber, from which Bergans will the make a new product from the recycled material.
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The future goal is to circulate the same resource–Spinnova fiber–many times over, avoiding the creation and consumption of virgin materials. Spinnova is now studying how many times the post-consumer fiber can be reused in its process.
The prototype backpack also includes other materials, all of natural origin: cellulose-based lyocell, lamb’s wool and wood. There are no coating chemicals or plastic and metal accessories in the backpack, so the item can be put back into the cycle without complicated dismantling.
“This was a fast and very successful start,” Spinnova CEO Janne Poranen said. “This will be a valuable, value-based long-term cooperation for us both.”
Bergans of Norway CEO Jan Tore Jensen said, “It is in our nature to be impatient and eager to try new things. To me it seems that Spinnova is just as adventurous as us. Working with such a partner is liberating and, I think, absolutely imperative, if we are to achieve results.”
Spinnova’s process can use Forestry Stewardship Council (FCS)-certified wood or cellulosic waste streams, with a method that involves no dissolving, harmful chemicals or side streams. The company explained that because the fiber’s chemical compound is the same as paper’s, it quickly biodegrades, shedding no microplastics.
Spinnova develops ecological technology for producing cellulose-based textile fiber that has zero harmful chemicals and no waste or side streams. The company’s objective is to globally commercialize its fibers in collaboration with major textile brands.
Bergans creates technical performance garments and high-quality outdoor equipment. Its Code of Conduct is to ensure its business is as sustainable as possible.
