Collaboration with Marimekko- The magic of fiber-to-fiber recycling

We are thrilled to showcase the first Marimekko products created using a material from close collaboration with Rester. This closed-loop project has been very inspirational to be part of and a great way to show that ambitious targets for reducing the use of conventional materials are attainable.

By collaborating with Rester, Marimekko can reuse their own materials in new products. Made partly from textiles recovered directly from Marimekko’s leftover fabric and cutting waste at textile printing factory and sewing shop in Finland, the main material of the Embla T-shirts contains at least 25% recycled cotton-linen fibers regenerated from the production waste. In addition, the products contain 75% organic cotton. These pieces showcase Marimekko´s latest steps towards one of their sustainability goals: to continuously reduce the amount of waste Marimekko generates and contribute to the circular economy through new processes and services.

Let’s break down the numbers a bit: by using 1,000 kg of Rester´s recovered cotton fiber, Marimekko can save, on average, 1.5 million liters of water and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2,000 kg compared to using virgin material. In other words, not only does this recycling process lead waste away from landfills and incinerators, but also helps to conserve existing natural resources by reducing the need for growing and processing new raw materials.

“Marimekko is showing the way to sustainable and responsible clothing industry. Material strategy and resource wise choices are key instruments to clothing industry when aiming to reduce environmental impact – which should be in focus of each and every company. We are so proud of being your partner in this, thank you team Marimekko”, says CEO of Rester Outi Luukko.

The Embla T-shirts are part of Marimekko´s pre-spring ’24 collection, now available in-store and at marimekko.com.