Innovative Peach Yarn (New thread of life)
About this good practice
This practice addresses the growing need for sustainable raw materials in the textile industry. Natural fibres such as cotton are limited due to environmental and land use constraints, while synthetic fibres - currently dominant in the market - are derived from non-renewable petroleum sources and have a significant environmental impact.
Greece ranks 5th globally in peach production, and 1st in production of peach compote in the world generating approximately 95,000 tons of waste annually from the juice and canning industries. This agricultural waste was identified as a valuable alternative raw material for the development of man-made cellulosic fibres, supporting circular economy goals.
The process included the collection, drying, and conversion of peach residues into cellulose powder by ELGO DIMITRA. The cellulose was then processed into yarn using the Lyocell method at the University of West Attica. The yarn was woven and blended with silk in Soufli and used by the wedding dresses designer in Thessaloniki to design and produce an experimental collection of wedding dresses.
Main stakeholders include: wedding dresses designer, University of West Attica (research and development), and ELGO DIMITRA (agricultural innovation). Beneficiaries include the fashion and textile industries, environmental stakeholders, and consumers seeking sustainable alternatives.
The innovation was patented at the European Patent Office in 2023 and internationally through the PCT system in 2024.
Resources needed
It took 10 full-time people for one year. The budget was 810.000€, with 80% funding from European funds. Laboratory equipment, sewing machines, PCs, design software, plotters, consumables and special waste containers were used.
Evidence of success
The innovative peach peel thread was produced and patented (EPO 2023, PCT 2024). 10 bridal and 6 baptism clothes were created, preserved for exhibitions and promotion. 2 tons of industrial waste were used in their production, demonstrating the transformation of agricultural residues into sustainable, high-value fashion products
Potential for learning or transfer
This internship offers important insights for regions seeking to promote a circular economy, reduce agricultural waste and develop sustainable solutions in the fashion sector. Through interdisciplinary collaboration between the agricultural sector, research and fashion, local waste is transformed into innovative products. It uses widely available resources (e.g. fruit waste) and existing industrial methods (Lyocell), which makes it applicable elsewhere. Success relies on local cooperation, access to infrastructure and design integration. Promotion of results by public bodies and international visibility enhance dissemination. Transfer may be limited by lack of infrastructure or coordination, but there is interest from similar agro-industrial regions.