Yoga pants are bad karma

Synthetic garments such as yoga pants have amazing properties. They are stretchable, do not tear easily, wick moisture and have great aesthetics. Unfortunately, they are also an environmental disaster.

The production of synthetic fibres consumes significant energy and water. Worse, they are almost entirely derived from fossil fuels and cannot be recycled efficiently. The manufacture of synthetic fibres is responsible for roughly 8% of global CO₂ emissions. Additionally, synthetic fibres and fabrics are also a major cause of water pollution. Roughly 1.2 grams of microfibres are released from a single synthetic garment when it is laundered in a washing machine. In all, as much as 2.2 million tonnes of microfibres are deposited in the global water system each year.

Hilo is a movement to fix our karma

We take inspiration and genetic information from nature and thereafter use the engine of synthetic biology to engineer microorganisms to synthesize customized biofibres. Our technology allows unparalleled customization of the fibres’ properties. We then employ fermentation and advanced processing technologies to draw and spin the fibres into yarn.

Our yarn is stronger, more stretchable, more durable, wicks more moisture and is more insulating than synthetic fibres. The biological origins of the material mean that the yarn and any fabrics made from it can also be composted after use.

Careers at Hilo

We are a growing team. If you are interested in joining our movement, please e-mail your resume and cover letter to careers@hilo.bio.