Turkish denim mill Orta Anadolu has incorporated LYCRA EcoMade into its Spring/Summer 2026 collection, marking a significant step in eco-conscious denim production. “Orta is one of our key partners, leading the way in understanding and addressing consumer needs through innovation,” said Ebru Ozaydın, global product director at The LYCRA Company.
The LYCRA Company has embraced bio-based innovation with the introduction of LYCRA EcoMade fiber, manufactured using Qira, a 1,4-butanediol (BDO) derived from dent corn and produced by Qore. This sustainable switch reduces emissions by 44%, as verified by a screening life cycle assessment, while maintaining identical performance and physical properties to traditional LYCRA spandex.
With 70% of its content derived from annually renewable dent corn, it reduces dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with sustainability goals and helping brands meet evolving European regulatory standards. This innovation offers denim brands a chance to address rising consumer demands for environmentally responsible fashion without compromising stretch and recovery performance.
As sustainability becomes a market imperative rather than a luxury, it represents a crucial advancement for denim brands striving to stay competitive in a challenging market. By integrating bio-based fibers like Qira, brands can demonstrate resilience, accountability, and a commitment to sustainable innovation, positioning themselves as leaders in the future of fashion.