Columbia Sportswear Econyl - A fabric made out of marine waste

Columbia Sportswear produces fishing apparel and “seeks to provide products that reduce the impact on the environment”.

The Econyl Regeneration System starts with rescuing waste from landfills and oceans all over the world. That waste is then sorted and cleaned to recover all the nylon possible through a radical regeneration and purification process.

The nylon waste is recycled back to its original purity, meaning that Econyl regenerated nylon is the same as virgin nylon. Econyl regenerated nylon is that it has the potential to be recycled infinitely without ever losing its quality.

Shannon Rogotzki, director for Columbia Sportswear South Africa, commented: "Today [22 March] is World Water Day and we are reminded of the impacts of climate change on our water resources and the importance of adequate freshwater supply. Yesterday we commemorated Human Rights Day and were reminded of our rights and responsibilities.

“I believe these are two of the most important days to celebrate. Two days where we can bring to light that every South African has a right to water and sanitation. We also have a responsibility as communities, to preserve and look after our water resources."