A goal without progress is just a promise.

So, to detail the tangible progress it has made toward 2030 sustainability goals, fiber and technology solutions company The LYCRA Company has published its third annual Sustainability Update and abridged Global Sustainability Scorecard for fiscal year 2023.

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Known as Planet Agenda, The LYCRA Company’s sustainability framework focuses on three pillars—product sustainability, manufacturing excellence and corporate responsibility. These align with five United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Our latest sustainability update demonstrates our long-term commitment towards a more sustainable future,” said Steve Stewart, chief brand and innovation officer of The LYCRA Company. “Delivering on our ambitions to drive meaningful change as we make progress against our 2030 goals inspired this year’s theme, Turning Ambition into Impact.”

Progress typically hinges upon innovation, and the Sustainability Update highlights the recent technological advancements and programs The LYCRA Company has undertaken.

These include advances in the commercialization of bio-derived LYCRA? fiber made with QIRA?, the introduction of industrial compostable LYCRA? fiber for the personal care segment, the extension of technologies that bring added durability to the LYCRA? ADAPTIV fiber portfolio, and a 26 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from the previous year.

Under the bio-derived LYCRA? fiber initiative, the key change will be the use of QIRA?, next-generation bio-derived feedstock made from field corn that replaces feedstock made from fossil fuels. The investment by Qore?, the makers of QIRA?, to build a new, high-efficiency wind-powered plant in Iowa underscores the commitment to sustainably scaling the product. Not only is field corn an annually renewable crop but using it for new applications such as LYCRA? fiber also helps support local farmers—some third and fourth generation.

“I’m excited about our products [corn] being used in sustainable fashion,” said Iowa farmer Steve Kulper. “If we can make life for our consumers better, that’s a win for everybody.”

The longer a garment can stay in use, the less impact it can have on the environment. Therefore, the company is also committed to helping make apparel more durable. In 2023, The LYCRA Company extended its LYCRA ADAPTIV? fiber offerings to include two new fiber technologies: LYCRA? ADAPTIV BLACK fiber (for long-lasting color retention in activewear and athleisure garments) and LYCRA? ADAPTIV XTRA LIFE fiber (for durable swimwear and activewear). Both products deliver the benefits of the original LYCRA? ADAPTIV fiber, now made even more durable to help extend garment life.