Product Overview: Kering’s Material Innovation Lab (MIL)
Introduction
Kering’s Material Innovation Lab (MIL), established in 2013, is a pioneering initiative dedicated to sourcing and developing sustainable materials and fabrics for the luxury fashion industry. Located in Milan, the MIL serves as a critical component of Kering’s sustainability strategy, aiming to transform the environmental footprint of its brands.
Key Features and Functionality
Sustainable Material Library
The MIL functions as an extensive library of sustainable fabrics, providing access to over 8,000 samples of certified organic fabrics, fibers, and alternative materials such as sustainable leathers, natural fibers, cellulosic fibers, and synthetic fibers. This library enables design teams across Kering’s brands to explore and integrate sustainable materials into their product development.
Supplier Collaboration and Traceability
The MIL works closely with suppliers to align their practices with the Kering Standards, focusing on traceability and sustainability throughout the entire supply chain. This includes raw material sourcing, production processes, farming, spinning, weaving, and sustainable dyeing. The lab supports suppliers in obtaining environmental certifications and promotes industry-wide sustainability standards.
Innovation and Testing
The MIL collaborates with industry-leading start-ups to test and implement innovative solutions such as new dyeing and finishing techniques, biotech fibers, and materials derived from agricultural waste. This collaborative approach drives disruptive innovation and helps in developing more sustainable materials and processes.
Sustainability Assessment and Certification
The lab uses the Kering EP&L (Environmental Profit & Loss) tool to evaluate the environmental impact of materials and fibers. It also relies on external certifications to verify sustainability claims. This rigorous assessment ensures that the materials meet high sustainability standards, contributing to a more sustainable supply chain.
Industry-Wide Impact
MIL’s efforts extend beyond Kering’s internal operations, as it engages with cross-industry organizations and collaborations such as Textile Exchange, Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute, and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s Make Fashion Circular initiative. This broader engagement helps drive industry-wide change towards more sustainable practices.
Training and Knowledge Sharing
The lab conducts regular training sessions and meetings with suppliers to emphasize the importance of sustainability. It also shares its knowledge and expertise through an open-source approach, fostering innovation and encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices across the industry.
Conclusion
Kering’s Material Innovation Lab is a comprehensive platform that not only provides a vast array of sustainable materials but also drives systemic change in the fashion industry. By combining innovation, supplier collaboration, and rigorous sustainability assessments, the MIL is a key driver in Kering’s mission to create a more sustainable and responsible luxury fashion sector.