Maker of biobased Naia™ cellulosic yarn to participate in global hub focused on smart fashion

Naia™, a brand of cellulosic yarn from Eastman, announced its collaboration with Milan, Italy-based eco-hub C.L.A.S.S. (Creativity Lifestyle and Sustainable Synergy) to support the fashion industry’s shift toward the circular economy, the economic model characterized as a collective awareness of social and environmental values throughout the fashion ecosystem. “Responsible innovation means embracing new business models and encouraging businesses to take a broader approach at all phases of fashion creation to ensure that environmental responsibility is embedded throughout fashion development and production,” said C.L.A.S.S. founder Giusy Bettoni.

With Naia™, Eastman integrates sustainability and fashion in a way that supports the circular economy by providing designers with a viable eco-conscious choice of material. Made from biobased wood pulp, Naia™ is a best-in-class example of responsible innovation. This sustainably sourced material, with its inherent luster and silky hand, lends itself to comfortable, luxurious fabrics.

“C.L.A.S.S. empowers global partners to take steps toward a circular economy," said Priya Kalsi, Eastman segment market manager of textiles. “For Eastman, that means providing designers and fashion students access to sustainable fabrics featuring Naia™ that foster their creativity.”