Walmart is exploring a symbiotic manufacturing process that converts captured carbon emissions from manufacturing waste streams into textiles.
As part of its goal to achieve zero emissions, Walmart is collaborating with Rubi, the company creating a new way of manufacturing.
Through a series of pilot projects, the pair will work toward the integration of a patent-pending carbon capture technology with some of Walmart’s sourcing partners.
Inspired by how trees use CO2 to grow, Rubi uses biochemical processes powered by enzymes at an industrial scale to “eat” carbon emissions and make carbon-negative, resource-neutral textiles. Rubi’s cell-free biocatalysis process captures and converts CO2 from the waste streams of manufacturing facilities into cellulose. The converted cellulose is then used to create lyocell yarn, which can be used for clothing and other materials.
“This technology could play an important role in our journey towards zero waste and zero emissions,” said Andrea Albright, EVP of sourcing at Walmart.
She addd: “We see the opportunity to use our scale and reach to have a positive impact wherever we operate, and we’re committed to accelerate this impact through our products, services, and business practices.”
Walmart is the first company to execute both manufacturing and brand pilot agreements with Rubi.
In its own operations, Walmart has set a goal to be powered 50% by renewable energy by 2025 and 100% by 2035.