German sportswear company TRIGEMA develops degradable T-shirts

TRIGEMA, a renowned German sportswear brand, has partnered with EPEA International Environmental Research Co., Ltd. to create an innovative biodegradable T-shirt known as the TRIGEMA-Shirt. Made from organic and recyclable materials, these shirts are designed to offer the same level of comfort as regular cotton garments, with no noticeable difference in texture or wearability. According to representatives from the German Pavilion, once these T-shirts are exposed to specific bacterial environments, they will fully decompose without leaving any harmful residues. Even components like buttons and zippers won't contribute to environmental pollution during the breakdown process. After the Shanghai World Expo concluded, the German Pavilion decided to bury the T-shirts beneath its pavilion to provide natural nutrients for the trees in the Expo Garden.

Despite being fully biodegradable when buried in soil, TRIGEMA-Shirts maintain good stability and do not suffer from issues like fading during washing or wearing. Their pricing is also quite reasonable, with the most affordable option starting at just 18 euros (approximately 76 RMB), while the more premium versions go up to around 300 RMB—comparable to other well-known brands on the market.

Domestic companies are also making significant progress in developing eco-friendly fibers. For example, corn fiber made from corn cob shells is gaining popularity due to its easy biodegradability. It takes roughly 3 pounds of corn cobs to produce one T-shirt. This kind of material represents a promising step toward sustainable fashion.

Another exciting development is the use of soft silk fibers infused with degradable proteins. These fabrics are breathable, moisture-wicking, and ideal for maintaining a comfortable microclimate against the skin. As the demand for sustainable textiles continues to grow, such innovations are paving the way for a greener future in the clothing industry.