H&M wants to make clothing from CO2 using this startup’s tech

H&M is partnering with startup Rubi to create textiles from captured CO2, addressing fashion's waste problem. Rubi's enzyme-driven technology enables the production of lyocell and viscose using carbon dioxide, reducing dependence on tree resources. Recently raising $7.5 million for scaling, Rubi aims to revolutionize the cellulose production process while targeting major brands like H&M and Walmart.

Key Points

• The fashion industry generates substantial waste, with one garbage truck of textiles discarded every second.
• Rubi’s technology uses enzymes to create cellulose from captured CO2, differing from traditional methods using engineered bacteria or chemical catalysts.
• $7.5 million was raised by Rubi to scale its CO2-based cellulose production system, aiming for tens of tons output.
• Rubi has secured over $60 million in non-binding agreements with major partners, including H&M and Patagonia.
• The company plans to create continuous production systems, targeting broader markets beyond apparel.

Relevance

• The shift towards sustainable fashion aligns with global trends focusing on carbon reduction and eco-friendly materials.
• In 2025, the IT landscape emphasizes AI and machine learning, as Rubi is applying these technologies to enhance enzyme efficacy.
• Current discussions on climate change heighten the urgency for sustainable production methods in various industries.

Rubi's innovation represents a critical step towards sustainable textiles, potentially transforming the fashion industry's environmental impact while aligning with broader technological and ecological trends.