Samsara Eco and Lululemon sign 10-year deal to boost recycled nylon and polyester use

Australian enzymatic recycling startup Samsara Eco and athletic apparel brand Lululemon have announced a ten-year offtake agreement, strengthening their partnership first revealed in May 2023. The deal could see Samsara's recycled materials eventually account for around 20% of Lululemon's total fibre use.

This move builds on earlier joint achievements, including the creation of the world's first enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6 product-a long-sleeved top unveiled in early 2023-and a limited-edition recycled polyester Anorak released shortly after.

While specific volumes were not disclosed, the companies emphasized the potential of this collaboration to accelerate Lululemon's transition to preferred materials by 2030. Nylon and polyester currently make up about 60% of global fibre production, highlighting the significance of this innovation.

Paul Riley, CEO and Founder of Samsara Eco, stated that circular material technology is now viable and ready for market adoption. "I'm incredibly optimistic about how we will help fuel circular apparel over the next decade with Lululemon," he said.

Ted Dagnese, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Lululemon, added that the company is pursuing a diversified strategy to meet its 2030 sustainability targets and reduce dependency on fossil-based materials.

Samsara, a spinout from the Australian National University established in 2021, uses enzymatic depolymerization to break down plastics into reusable monomers. The company plans to open a new plant in Jerrabomberra, New South Wales, with its first international facility slated for 2028.