After evaluating various initiatives Lenzing decided to join the platform of TextileGenesis, a Hong Kong based technology company, to achieve its ambition. Blockchain is the technology the underpins digital currencies like Bitcoin. It allows digital information to be distributed, but not copied, which means each individual piece of data can only have one owner.

Consumers increasingly want to understand the ingredients and suppliers of the products they buy, requesting a new level of transparency and traceability. The supply chain transparency from wood to garment and home textiles will enable all customers and partners to identify Tencel fibres and the respective wood source in each production and distribution step. Thanks to a QR code on the final garment, consumers will be able to detect the origin of the clothes they intend to buy.

“With Lenzing Ecovero branded fibers Lenzing was the front runner in physical traceability and is now entering the age of digital traceability. This milestone in transparency is a further strong commitment to sustainability,” said Stefan Doboczky, Chief Executive Officer of the Lenzing Group. “Together with TextileGenesis, we aim to create an unmatched level of transparency for brands and consumers. With this step Lenzing will further help to green up the textile industry.”

Lenzing says it will carry out pilot tests over the next few months involving partners along the entire value chain. The Austrian company expects the platform to be fully operational as of 2020.