Austria-based Lenzing, a leading supplier of specialized fibers made responsibly, was honored at The International Textile Manufacturers Federation (ITMF) Awards 2022 for its commitment to pushing the way for sustainable practices in the denim industry.

On the ITMF Annual Conference in Davos, Switzerland, the company's flagship model Tencel Modal fiber with Indigo Color expertise won the prize for Sustainability and Innovation.

Tencel Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology, which was first introduced in 2021, has established itself as the leading fiber solution to address the demand for more environmentally responsible fiber alternatives among denim makers and merchants. The new technology uses a one-step spun-dying process to directly integrate indigo color into modal fibers bearing the Tencel name.

Compared to traditional indigo dyeing, this method provides better color fastness. The production of Tencel Modal fiber with Indigo Color technology saves around 99 percent of water and electrical energy, 80 percent of chemical compounds, and even 100 percent of warmth power, significantly reducing the environmental impact of denim merchandise.

Florian Heubrandner, vp international textiles enterprise at Lenzing AG, said that sustainability and innovation are important business drivers for Lenzing, and it is an honor to be recognized by business leaders and the ITMF Awards. With Tencel Modal with Indigo Color technology, they set a new standard for the denim industry by fusing eco-friendly materials with cutting-edge technology. In order to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly alternatives, they will keep innovating their fiber products. With every fiber innovation, they are one step closer to minimizing the environmental effect of their textile industry ecosystem.

Tencel Modal with Indigo Color Technology fibers provides a variety of applications, including denim, outerwear, vibrant clothing, and footwear. According to the release, the new fibers might possibly expand the uses of indigo in children's products like clothing and bedding.

Tricia Carey, director of world enterprise growth denim and Americas, Lenzing AG, said that they’re open to innovation and what can be done even as we continue to experiment with various washes, effects, and fiber combinations. There are currently commercial knitwear programs outside of the denim sector. With so many brilliant people and innovative ideas available, this is a fantastic chance to try something new and leave a smaller environmental imprint.