SK Geocentric has taken a significant step towards sustainability by producing polyester using renewable naphtha extracted from bio-based process by-products like palm fatty acid distillate (PFAD) and used cooking oil.
This milestone, announced on July 4, marks the culmination of a collaborative effort with six global companies, including Finland's largest oil company Neste, Thailand's petrochemical company Indorama Ventures, and Japan's sportswear company Goldwin.
The consortium, formed last year, aims to produce and supply sustainable polyester. SK Geocentric's role within this consortium is to produce renewable paraxylene (PX), a key raw material for polyester, at its Ulsan plant. The renewable naphtha, sourced from Neste, is processed into paraxylene, which is then exported for further processing into polyester. This year, the amount of renewable paraxylene produced by SK Geocentric is sufficient to make approximately 100,000 T-shirts.
According to industry sources on July 5, the sustainable polyester produced through this collaboration will be used in sportswear products of the outdoor brand 'The North Face,' owned by Goldwin. The entire process, from renewable naphtha to final apparel products, reduces greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 80-85% compared to using fossil fuels. This significant reduction underscores the environmental benefits of the initiative.
"We have produced polyester using renewable naphtha extracted from bio-based process by-products like PFAD and used cooking oil," stated a representative from SK Geocentric. "The amount of renewable paraxylene produced by SK Geocentric this year is sufficient to make approximately 100,000 T-shirts."
The production of sustainable polyester is a response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly products and the need to reduce the environmental impact of traditional polyester production, which relies heavily on fossil fuels. The collaboration between companies from Japan, Finland, India, and Thailand highlights the importance of international cooperation in advancing sustainability initiatives.
The companies involved in the consortium are also exploring ways to expand the application of sustainable polyester, aiming to further reduce the environmental footprint of the textile and apparel industry. This initiative aligns with the broader sustainable fashion movement, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly products and the industry's commitment to corporate social responsibility.
By leveraging bio-based by-products like PFAD and used cooking oil, SK Geocentric and its partners are not only minimizing waste but also creating valuable materials for sustainable production. This innovative approach is a testament to the technological advances in recycling and bio-based material processing, paving the way for a more sustainable future in the textile industry.
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