Tencel

Tencel is actually the brand name belonging to a company, Lenzing Fibers, for a material called lyocell. It’s a manmade fiber, but it is extracted from wood pulp and is completely biodegradable. Tencel is made from wood harvested from sustainable tree farms, and it is certified by the international Forest Stewardship Council. Tencel production requires the use of a significant number of chemicals, but the closed loop production process recovers 99.5% of the solvents used in the production process, meaning chemicals are reused over and over again without generating any waste. Furthermore, remaining emissions are decomposed in adapted biological purification plants, so that chemical-laden air is cleaned before it is released outside. This process was awarded the “European Award for the Environment” by the European Union.

Tencel has a number of attractive fabric properties, such as its ability to absorb moisture, its natural breathability, a smooth surface suitable for sensitive skin, as well as strength and stretch. It drapes well, and blends well with cotton, wool, and other natural fibers. It is also washable and resistant to wrinkles.