Liele

Liele, operating under the name re-eir, is developing chemical recycling technology to promote a circular economy for textiles. The company's primary focus is on a proprietary process that can separate and recover raw materials from blended fabrics, which are notoriously difficult to recycle. This technology aims to address the significant environmental impact of the fashion industry by breaking down common textile blends, such as poly-cotton, into their constituent parts—cellulose (from cotton) and terephthalic acid (from polyester).

The process is designed to be closed-loop, minimizing waste and enabling the recovered materials to be reintroduced into the supply chain to create new fibers and fabrics. By doing so, Liele aims to reduce the textile industry's reliance on virgin resources and divert substantial amounts of clothing from landfills and incinerators. The company's business model targets collaboration with fashion brands, textile manufacturers, and waste management companies to integrate this recycling solution into the broader supply chain. This approach supports a shift from a linear 'take-make-dispose' model to a circular one where textiles are continuously reused and recycled.

Liele was founded by Corinna D'Schoto, an artist with a background in sculpture, painting, and installation who received her BFA from Massachusetts College of Art & Design. Her artistic work often explores the social and cultural functions of domestic objects and spaces, which provides a unique perspective on the lifecycle and value of materials like textiles. This creative and analytical background informs the company's approach to redesigning the textile lifecycle for sustainability.

Keywords: textile recycling, chemical recycling, circular economy, sustainable fashion, blended fabrics, fabric separation, poly-cotton recycling, closed-loop recycling, textile waste solutions, green technology, cleantech, material recovery, sustainable materials, circular textiles, fashion technology