To play its part in plastic recycling, YKK has developed the NATULON® zipper. The zipper is made from recycled plastic bottles and polyester fibers. Currently, numerous fashion brands seeking to play an active role in the circular economy are increasingly incorporating it into their production.
NATULON® zippers are made from either chemically recycled or mechanically recycled materials, and both types are clearly labeled.
Chemically recycled versions use high-purity polyester made from chemically degraded polyester derived from plastic bottles and woven products. They are Ecomark and bluesign® certified.
YKK uses mechanical recycling technology for its NATULON® brand products. This process involves melting down cut-up and cleaned plastic bottles, which ultimately produces recycled material. These products are also bluesign certified.
The use of NATULON® zippers reduces the environmental impact of plastic bottles; for example, the production of 10,000 zippers, each 60 cm long, recycles 3,609 plastic bottles (29 g per bottle).
As a member of the fashion industry, YKK firmly believes that striving to reduce waste is one of its most important corporate responsibilities to society, and it intends to continue actively promoting such efforts.
YKK will thus continue its efforts to reduce the environmental impact of its zipper production while ensuring that its products remain durable and appealing to users. Their goal is to reduce waste by actively participating in reuse and recycling, thereby establishing more sustainable supply chains.
