Alchemie Technology, a UK-based startup, has introduced a digital dyeing machine that cuts water and energy use in fabric dyeing, a process responsible for significant pollution and resource use.
In short:
- Alchemie’s Endeavour machine applies dye using inkjet-like technology, reducing water use by 95% and energy by up to 85%.
- The textile dyeing industry accounts for 20% of global industrial water pollution, using trillions of liters of water and producing massive carbon emissions.
- Endeavour is being tested in Taiwan, with plans to expand to other textile hubs and scale the technology to meet industry needs.
Key quote:
“What we're effectively doing is registering and placing a drop, a very small drop precisely and accurately onto the fabric.”
— Dr. Alan Hudd, founder of Alchemie Technology.
Why this matters:
The textile industry’s traditional dyeing methods strain water resources, especially in water-scarce regions, and contribute to global pollution. Innovative, water-saving dyeing technologies could help the fashion industry move toward sustainability, potentially reducing its environmental footprint while conserving vital resources.
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