What if the clothes we no longer wear could have a second life, not just as recycled clothing, but as an integral part of our homes? The question is answered by Isocoton, an innovation that transforms used fabrics into thermal and acoustic insulation. This project aims to reduce the enormous environmental impact of the fashion industry and offers a sustainable and high-performance solution for construction. Let's take a deeper look at it, shall we? As always, starting from the general context.
The textile industry and its environmental impact
According to the Ecofin agency, the world production of cotton fibers amounts to approximately 24,2 million tons per year. A significant figure, especially if we consider that in Europe Over 4 million tons of clothes end up in landfills every year.
This is (also) why the fashion industry, notoriously one of the most polluting in the world, finds itself at the center of a far-reaching environmental problem. And that's why Isocoton could be part of the ways to mitigate its impact.
Isocoton, the origins
The creation of Isocoton by Isover, a company of the French Saint-Gobain group, began with the collection of recycled cotton fibre, obtained from fabrics collected by French collectors of end-of-life clothing and textile industry waste. This material is then transformed into thermal and acoustic insulation through a fraying process.
Isocoton presents itself as a versatile insulation, suitable for almost all types of domestic insulation work: walls, partitions, ceilings, attics. The panels, measuring 120×60 cm, are available in four different thicknesses. In terms of data: excellent thermal performance and A+ health classification, therefore safe for the inhabitants. In terms of acoustic performance, no difference with glass wool, and thanks to its flexible structure it greatly facilitates the work of installers. And there's more.
Sustainability and environmental impact
Isocoton production is an example of sustainability in the construction industry. The transformation process follows a dry method which guarantees low carbon impact and reduced water consumption. This approach not only valorises textile waste, transforming it into useful resources, but also helps reduce pollution and waste production.
In summary, Isocoton represents a significant innovation in the field of sustainable building materials. In one fell swoop it can reduce the environmental impact of one sector (the fashion industry) and support another (construction). It is set to become a leading player in the field of sustainable insulation.
