(SGI) For its current swimwear collection for spring/summer 2020, Prana, one of Columbia Sportswear’s brands, is using 100 percent recycled Econyl fiber, eliminating the use of virgin polyester or nylon made from petroleum. The fiber is made from waste such as fishing nets, fabric remnants, old carpets and industrial plastics. Econyl functions the same way as virgin nylon fiber but can be recycled and shaped over and over again. According to Aquafil, the fiber’s manufacturer, the greenhouse effect of the production of the Econyl fiber is about 80 percent less than that of virgin nylon. The Californian brand Prana – which offers mainly yoga, climbing and lifestyle clothing, plus accessories and swimwear – has placed great importance on environmental compatibility and sustainability since its founding in 1992. Prana was one of the first U.S. companies to become a bluesign system partner and the first major clothing manufacturer in North America to receive Fair Trade USA certification. Columbia Sportswear acquired the brand in 2014 for $190 million.
