Braskem’s I’m green bio-based EVA derived from sustainably sourced sugarcane will be used to produce Gelmart’s kindly bra line.
Braskem, the largest polyolefins producer in the Americas, as well as a market leader and pioneer producer of biopolymers on an industrial scale, recently announced its partnership with Gelmart International (“Gelmart”), a leading global manufacturer of intimate apparel.
Braskem in supplying its I’m green EVA biopolymer to support production of the world’s first-of-its-kind plant-based bra cup sourced from sustainably grown sugarcane. Gelmart’s new kindly line of sustainable intimate apparel launched in August and is available exclusively across 3,300 Walmart retail stores and online at Walmart.com
Gelmart has designed, developed, and produced over 1.25 billion units in underwear, bras, and shapewear for the world’s biggest retailers and brands. Gelmart’s kindly bra line is the culmination of more than three years of proprietary development, resulting in the world’s first mass-produced, plant-based bra.
Braskem’s I’m green bio-based EVA is sustainably produced from sugarcane, a renewable source that contributes to the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by CO2 capture. For those who want to adopt Green EVA into a new product concept, it is ideal for use in apparel, footwear, children’s toys, general foams and much more.
The kindly product line aims to connect the worlds of sustainability, accessibility, and innovation by incorporating more environmentally friendly materials such as Braskem’s I’m green EVA biopolymer, replacing the use of traditional foam materials. Affordably priced, the kindly line allows consumers to feel good about making a more sustainable choice, all without sacrificing quality or value.
Edison Terra, Executive Vice President, Braskem, commented, “As a global leader in bio-polymers, Braskem has a long-standing commitment to creating a more sustainable future. Our innovative portfolio of I’m green plant-based materials is helping global consumer brands and manufacturers transition from legacy fossil fuels based raw materials to more eco-friendly solutions. We couldn’t be more excited to announce our partnership with Gelmart, their visionary leadership is helping transform the world’s apparel industry with creative new offerings that bring the same high-quality and comfort, but also deliver a more sustainable footprint on the planet.”
Yossi Nasser, Chief Executive Officer, Gelmart International, stated, “We’re thrilled to bring the world’s first plant-based bra cup to market, but real sustainability does not exist without accessibility. It’s important to us that our brands are known not only for quality products, but more for creating a movement towards a more eco-friendly and attainable lifestyle for all. So finding the right partner to provide the high-quality eco-friendly materials at scale was an essential factor in our strategy. Braskem was the natural choice for us as a leading supplier of biopolymers, their deep expertise in Green EVA and their collaborative approach were a perfect fit.”
Giancarlos Delevati, Account Manager & Business Development, Braskem, commented, “Today’s consumer is taking a more holistic approach when making their purchasing decision and this increasingly calls for selecting products that are developed and produced with a focus on sustainability as a primary consideration. At Braskem, we partner with our customers to help them make the transition from legacy materials to more environmentally friendly materials. We are proud to work with Gelmart to help move the apparel industry forward on its sustainability journey and deliver products that meet the needs of their customers who are passionate about creating a better future for the planet.”
Eve Bastug, Chief Product Officer, Gelmart International, stated, “In my 40 plus years working in the industry, this was the most challenging project I’ve worked on – and it certainly feels the most rewarding. It took us three years to work towards a sustainable cup that is over 80% plant-based. Our goal is to never make consumers choose between function, plant and price, by creating a more sustainable future with beautifully crafted products that people can feel good about wearing.”
