Clothes from Crop Harvest Waste

Nature, Climate
Nature Positive Materials, Circular Economy

fibe.uk/

Fibe is reimagining clothing by turning agricultural waste into high-performance, sustainable textiles. They have developed the world’s first fibre derived from potato stems and have since expanded their work to include a range of crop residues. All inputs are farm byproducts that typically have no value and are often burned, releasing carbon into the atmosphere.

Fibe’s process mechanically and biologically extracts fibres without harsh chemicals, using minimal water and negligible land. The result is a cotton- or linen-like material that can be spun and woven using existing textile machinery. By sourcing raw material from crop residues, Fibe reduces pressure on arable land, cuts water use by up to 99% compared to cotton, and can even deliver carbon-negative fibres by preventing crop waste burning.

Fibe’s technology has been validated through industrial trials and is now scaling toward its first demonstration plant, unlocking commercial production with partner brands. Backed by Patagonia’s Tin Shed Ventures and Innovate UK, the company is building new value chains that pay farmers for agricultural waste while offering the fashion industry a scalable, affordable alternative to environmentally costly fibres.