#USA #Singapore #SHEIN #Donghua University #Regracell

SHEIN's Innovative Polyester Recycling Process

In January 2025, SHEIN, a prominent player in the online fashion retail space, reached a significant milestone with the unveiling of an advanced polyester recycling technique. This achievement forms part of SHEIN's evoluSHEIN strategy, a broader initiative aimed at revolutionizing the brand's operational model to be more sustainable.

Developed in collaboration with Donghua University, a leading research institution in textile innovation, this state-of-the-art recycling process is designed to incorporate a diverse array of materials. Unlike current practices, which primarily rely on limited sources, SHEIN's method accepts both pre- and post-consumer polyester feedstock. This includes not just discarded textiles but also recycled PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, significantly broadening the sourcing avenues for raw materials.

Enhancing Flexibility and Cost Efficiency

The innovative aspect of this recycling process lies in its flexibility and efficiency. By utilizing a wide range of feedstocks, SHEIN can achieve better cost management compared to existing recycled polyester options. Research conducted by Donghua has demonstrated promising results; fabrics produced through this new method can undergo multiple cycles of recycling without substantial degradation of their material properties. The approach involves chemically breaking down and refining the input materials, allowing for the reconstitution of high-quality polyester at the polymer level.

As the project progresses, SHEIN aims to partner with select fiber manufacturers to transition from laboratory-scale production to a full-fledged commercial facility. The target launch date for large-scale production is set for June 2025, with an ambitious annual capacity of producing 3,000 metric tons of recycled polyester fibers.

Commitment to Sustainability

SHEIN's President for the EMEA region, Leonard Lin, emphasized the company's dedication to leveraging technology and innovation to address industry challenges. He stated, "This new polyester recycling process enables us to integrate a wider variety of feedstock, improve cost efficiencies, and sustainably recycle polyester fibers without compromising their quality. It's a critical step toward reducing our dependence on virgin polyester and driving the fashion industry toward a more sustainable future."

In line with its sustainability goals, SHEIN has committed to transitioning 31% of the polyester used in its brand products to recycled materials by 2030. The company is deeply invested in promoting circular solutions and exploring next-generation fibers. Notably, the evoluSHEIN x Anitta collection showcases ready-to-wear styles made from Regracell, a biodegradable fiber derived from a blend of recycled textile waste and FSC-certified wood materials.

Furthermore, SHEIN's collaboration with Aloqia since 2022 has allowed them to utilize deadstock fabrics, leftover materials from various brands, in creating exclusive limited-edition designs. One such initiative was the SHEIN X Rescued collection, launched in May 2024, that featured designs crafted by SHEIN X designers using these deadstock materials.

Conclusion

Through these advancements, SHEIN is not just adapting to the changing landscape of the fashion industry; it is leading the charge towards sustainability in textile production. The innovative recycling process is set to establish a new benchmark in the fashion retail sector, showcasing SHEIN's commitment to eco-friendly practices and ultimately reshaping consumer perceptions of fast fashion.

By continuing to push the envelope in sustainable practices, SHEIN hopes to influence the broader industry and set a new standard for responsible fashion consumption.