Hello! I’m Kimura from the ApparelX Sustainable Team.
Terms like “bio nylon,” “bio polyester,” and “bio urea” are now commonly seen.
While they may sound environmentally friendly, many people may still wonder, “What exactly is the raw material in bio materials?”
In this article, we’ll clearly explain what “bio” really means as a first step toward understanding sustainable materials.
What does “bio” mean?
In the materials field, “bio” means that biomass, a raw material derived from living organisms, is used.
Until now, many materials have depended on petroleum-based raw materials, but bio materials replace part or all of that with renewable bio-based raw materials.
What is biomass?
It means the mass of biological resources, and generally refers to organic matter from plants and animals that can be used as an energy source.
Main raw materials for bio materials
The raw materials used in products called “bio ○○” are mainly the following:
・Corn
・Sugarcane
・Wood (cellulose)
・Tubers such as cassava
・Vegetable oils
・Ingredients obtained through microbial fermentation
These are renewable resources that are not easily depleted, and they form the basis of sustainable material development.
Why are bio-based raw materials getting attention?
The background is growing awareness of environmental issues.
・Breaking away from dependence on petroleum
Petroleum is a finite resource. By using bio-based raw materials, we can reduce dependence on fossil resources.
・The idea of carbon neutrality
Plants absorb CO₂ during their growth process.
By using plant-derived raw materials, it is believed that CO₂ emissions across the entire lifecycle of the material can be reduced.
“Bio” does not mean “returns to nature”
This is a point that is often misunderstood.
Bio materials mean that bio-based raw materials are used, and they are not necessarily biodegradable.
Some bio materials do not break down
・ In many cases, only part of the material is bio-based
・ Many are designed with performance and durability as the priority
For that reason, specific labeling such as “bio-derived” or “biomass ○%” has recently become more important.
Examples of “bio ○○” used in apparel
In fashion and auxiliary materials, the following materials are used.
・ Bio polyester: polyester using part plant-derived raw materials
・ Bio nylon: uses plant-derived raw materials such as castor oil
・ Bio urea: urea resin made with bio-based raw materials
The aim of all of these is to “maintain the functionality of conventional materials while reducing environmental impact.”
Points to check when choosing sustainable materials
Rather than judging by the word “bio” alone, it’s recommended to check the following points.
・ What is the raw material derived from?
・ What percentage is bio-based?
・ Is it biodegradable?
Does it match the intended use and durability requirements?
By understanding it correctly, your choice can also communicate a sustainable effort.
Here are some bio ○○ products listed on ApparelX!
BNP-002
Bio polyester 4-hole button
This product is a button made using rapeseed oil press cake, bagasse, and wheat straw.
CAS-1
Bio nylon 4-hole button
This button uses oil extracted from castor beans (non-food raw material).
PRV-48
Bio urea 4-hole button
This button is made using sugarcane press cake.
Summary
How was that? The “bio” in “bio ○○” means that bio-based raw materials are used. It is a practical approach to reducing dependence on petroleum and lowering environmental impact.
By understanding the background and meaning of the material, sustainable choices can feel more familiar and more convincing.
In addition to the products introduced here, we also carry biomass products, so if you are interested, please take a look here.
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