Singapore-based materials science startup, NEXTEVO, has announced the launch of its first production facility in Dong Nai province, Vietnam. This cutting-edge facility will transform pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) into ready-to-spin (RTS) fiber using NEXTEVO’s efficient mechanical process, enabling scalable production.
Tackling Major Environmental Challenges
Agricultural, forestry, and land use are responsible for 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Improper disposal of agricultural waste, such as burning unused pineapple residues or letting them decompose, releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide and methane, which are harmful to the environment. The fashion industry also plays a significant role in environmental degradation, accounting for 10% of global carbon emissions.
NEXTEVO’s expansion into Vietnam aims to address these environmental challenges by converting agricultural by-products into sustainable textile materials, supporting various eco-friendly initiatives.
Leveraging Vietnam’s Textile Supply Chain
Vietnam, the world’s third-largest textile exporter, presents a strategic location for NEXTEVO’s new venture. The Dong Nai facility benefits from its proximity to major seaports, Ho Chi Minh City, and vertically integrated textile manufacturers, enhancing cost efficiency and reducing long-distance inland transportation emissions.
NEXTEVO sources pineapple leaf fiber from the Philippines, Indonesia, East Africa, and soon, Vietnam and India. This diversified and scalable sourcing reduces climate risk and ensures a steady supply of raw materials.
Advantages of Pineapple Leaf Fiber
Pineapple leaves, a byproduct of fruit cultivation, require no additional land, water, or fertilizers. This sustainable method minimizes environmental impact by leveraging existing agricultural practices, transforming a byproduct into a valuable resource.
Pineapple leaves are compostable, biodegradable, and possess skin-friendly, breathable properties, making them ideal for innovative fashion and textile materials. In Asia, pineapple symbolizes prosperity, while in Western cultures it is associated with hospitality and luck.
NEXTEVO offers a range of product materials, including Pineapple RTS fiber, blended yarn, and blended fabric. These customizable offerings cater to spinners, yarn producers, and brands, providing flexibility across the industry from raw materials to semi-finished textiles. Their products serve various applications, including apparel, accessories, footwear, home textiles, and automotive interiors.
A Vision for Sustainability
Harold Koh, Founder and CEO of NEXTEVO, stated, “The compelling story and benefits of pineapple fiber will surely resonate with consumers and brands alike. We are excited to unveil this sustainable fiber to the textile industry, as we are able to produce it at scale in our own facility to serve our customers consistently.”
NEXTEVO is committed to creating a network that connects suppliers, retailers, and customers, fostering sustainable natural fiber growth in Vietnam and improving the livelihoods of farming communities in the Philippines, Indonesia, and East Africa. Future expansions are planned for Vietnam and India.
The company offers products to producers in Vietnam and extends its reach globally through exports. NEXTEVO aims to cut its carbon footprint in half by 2028 and plans to incorporate other sustainable natural fibers in the future.
