A new report out today by Sustainabelle Advisory Services, backed by Kering and the Laudes Foundation, offers an in-depth look at the current and future landscape of material innovations in the fashion industry. The report, titled “Next Gen to This Gen: Scaling Material Innovations in the Fashion Sector,” leverages insights from 62 expert interviews and feedback from 157 stakeholders to provide a thorough overview of the sector’s challenges and advancements. Defining Next Gen Materials “Next Gen” material innovations are defined as renewable materials and processes that are not yet scaled but have the potential to transform the fashion industry. These innovations aim to reduce dependence on finite resources such as petroleum, land, and water while minimizing risks to human health, human rights, and animal welfare. Additionally, they promote more circular production methods, fostering a sustainable and ethical approach to fashion manufacturing. Industry Setbacks and Successes Despite significant investments, some of these material innovators have encountered major obstacles. Bolt Threads, a pioneer in biomaterials, ceased production of its Mylo mycelium material in June 2023, despite raising over $380 million over 15 years. Renewcell, a leader in cellulosic recycling, faced a 70% stock price decline in October 2023 and declared bankruptcy in […]