The LYCRA Company has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Qore®, the producer of QIRA® a next-generation, bio-derived 1,4-butanediol (BDO). This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing mission to innovate responsibly and reduce its environmental footprint.
What is QIRA®?
QIRA® is a revolutionary material derived from dent corn, offering a renewable alternative to traditional fossil-fuel-based BDO. It plays a critical role in creating sustainable versions of spandex and elastane fibers. By replacing petrochemical feedstocks with corn-based QIRA®, The LYCRA Company aims to significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain.
Sustainable LYCRA® Fiber Set for 2025 Launch
The new LYCRA® fiber made with QIRA® will be commercially available at scale by late 2025. This innovative material maintains the performance and stretch characteristics the LYCRA® brand is known forcomfort, durability, and fit while offering brands and consumers a greener alternative.
A Vision for a Sustainable Future
This collaboration supports global sustainability goals and meets growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible products. By integrating QIRA® into its fiber portfolio, The LYCRA Company empowers its partners in apparel, activewear, and intimates to source more sustainable materials without sacrificing quality or functionality.
Environmental Impact and Industry Implications
According to Qore®, using QIRA® can reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 93% compared to conventional fossil-derived BDO. This dramatic reduction can contribute to industry-wide efforts to meet climate targets and minimize reliance on non-renewable resources.
This initiative underscores The LYCRA Company’s broader sustainability roadmap, including efforts to enhance circularity, improve traceability, and support the development of bio-based and recycled materials. It also exemplifies how collaborative innovation can drive transformative change across global industries.
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