Teijin Fibers Limited has announced that ECO CIRCLE, a closed-loop recycling system for used polyester products that employs unprecedented chemical recycling technology, has welcomed its 100th company as a registered participant. Since its launch in 2002, ECO CIRCLE has been participated in by companies that share a commitment to promoting progressive environmental activities through product development, collection of used materials and recycling.

While the original focus of ECO CIRCLE was on recycling uniforms and interior materials, the initiative was expanded through collaborations in 2005 with Patagonia Inc., a leading U.S. outdoor wear manufacturer, and fashion manufacturers in 2006. Overseas members have increased since 2007 and now include major manufacturers such as Mountain Equipment Co-op in Canada and Quiksilver in France.

Products within the scope of ECO CIRCLE now include eco bags, which was introduced in 2006. Teijin Fibers has also been raising consumer awareness of recycling by promoting ECO CIRCLE at major music and sports events.

With overseas companies currently accounting for only about 10% of total membership, Teijin Fibers hopes to expand their presence through more international collaborations. There also are plans to expand the product scope of the members. Currently, about 40 members deal in uniforms, 20 school gym clothes, 10 interior items, 10 sportswear and fashion wear and 20 bags and materials. In the future, however, the plan is to target not only clothing companies, but also makers of a wide range of other products.

About ECO CIRCLE

Developed by Teijin Fibers, ECO CIRCLE is a closed-loop recycling system for used polyester products. The system employs the world's first technology for chemical recycling, which chemically decomposes polyester for conversion into new polyester raw materials that offer purity comparable to those derived from petroleum. Teijin Fibers cooperates with registered apparel and sportswear manufacturers worldwide for the development and manufacture of products made from recyclable materials, as well as to collect and recycle these products at the end of their useful lives. Compared to developing polyester materials from petroleum, this repeatable recycling system reduces energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 80% each.

For further details, please visit: http://www.ecocircle.jp/index_e.html