Lululemon Partners With ZymoChem To Scale Bio-Based Nylon
Lululemon has announced a multi-year collaboration with San Leandro-based biotechnology company ZymoChem to expand its use of bio-based nylon and advance sustainable innovation. The partnership aims to develop a bio-based alternative for adipic acid, a key component of nylon 6,6 used in Lululemon’s signature products like Align and Wunder Train leggings.
Lululemon initially invested in ZymoChem last year to support the development of its sustainable nylon technology. The next phase will focus on scaling production to commercialize bio-based nylon 6,6, ensuring the same quality and performance as its conventional counterpart.
“This collaboration reinforces our commitment to transitioning to sustainable materials,” said Yogendra Dandapure, VP of Raw Materials Innovation at Lululemon. “ZymoChem’s groundbreaking technology enables us to create high-performance bio-based nylon 6,6 without compromising on quality,” Dandapure added.
The partnership builds on Lululemon’s work with Geno and Samsara Eco to develop lower-impact materials, including enzymatically recycled nylon 6,6. These efforts support the company’s broader goal of integrating renewable and recycled materials across its product range.
“We have spent years refining our Carbon Conserving process to develop a sustainable version of nylon,” said Harshal Chokhawala, co-founder and CEO of ZymoChem. “Partnering with Lululemon allows us to bring bio-based, decarbonized nylon to a global scale.”
By expanding its network of sustainable material partners, Lululemon is driving innovation in renewable and recycled textiles, reinforcing its leadership in next-generation performance fabrics.
