Inditex launches detergent designed to reduce microfibre release
Inditex is taking a step forward in terms of sustainable innovations for the textile industry. Through its homeware and decor brand, Zara Home, the Spanish fashion group based in Arteixo, A Coruña, has introduced a detergent that reduces microfibre release during washing by up to 80%. Already available online and in Zara Home stores, the 750 ml detergent retails at a price of 7.99 euros.
According to the company, the innovative solution was developed by Inditex together with BASF Home Care and I&I Solutions in Spain and Germany. The detergent reduces microfibre release by up to 80%, depending on fabric type and washing conditions, as shown by test results from different independent research institutions.
Results have shown that the detergent is "particularly suitable" for washing at low temperatures, thus helping to reduce customers' energy consumption by lowering the washing temperature from 40°C to 20°C. The product is made up of 73% natural ingredients and is suitable for washing clothes by machine, as well as by hand.
In order to enhance the solution's positive impact, the formula can also be adjusted to allow other detergent manufacturers to make wider use of the technology.
"Innovation and collaboration are key to facing the challenges of the textile industry. That is why at Inditex we strive to be more creative and efficient by driving innovative new technologies," said Inditex's chief sustainability officer, Javier Losada. "This project with BASF is a good example of this approach as it shows the effectiveness of cross-industry collaboration and goes one step further as the solution can be adjusted to extend the use of this technology in the industry," he added.
Sören Hildebrandt, senior vice president of Home Care, I&I and Industrial Formulators at BASF, said that "with the jointly developed laundry detergent, we are supporting the textile industry on its sustainability path and allowing consumers to improve their own environmental footprint."
The Care Chemicals division of the BASF Group is a global supplier to the cosmetics, detergents and cleaners industry. With more than 110,000 employees, the conglomerate boasts a broad portfolio: chemicals, materials, surface technologies, nutrition and care, as well as agricultural solutions. The turnover of the company, which is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, amounted to 59 billion euros in 2020.
The Inditex group, for its part, is currently implementing several sustainable initiatives as it is committed to achieving climate neutrality by 2040. The homeware and decor retailer Zara Home is one of the seven brands with which the company chaired by Marta Ortega operates internationally. Today, the brand is present in 60 different markets with more than 500 stores worldwide.
In the first half of the current financial year, the Spanish group increased its profit by 41% to 1.79 billion euros. In addition, turnover grew by 25% at constant exchange rates to 14.8 billion euros.
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