SK Chemicals, a unit of South Korea's SK Group, has developed eco-friendly synthetic leather in collaboration with Kima, a domestic green leather provider, using "Ecotrion," a new material named PO3G (Polyoxytrimethylene Glycol) that reduces greenhouse gas emissions and offers long durability.
Ecotrion is a polymer derived from biological raw materials using fermented corn. In May 2022, SK Chemicals established a PO3G production line to meet growing demands for artificial leather. Sneakers and fashion products using PO3G have the advantage of smoother, elastic resilience and resistance over existing products, making them more wearable.
Kima will produce green artificial leather with Ecotrion for the creation of various eco-friendly products including handbags. "In line with the era of carbon neutrality, ethical consumption is becoming an important topic in the world. We will respond to the growing eco-friendly fashion market with chemical recycled materials and bio-materials," SK Chemicals' new business development head Jung Jae-joon said in a statement on August 16.
Plastic products are broken down into microscopic sizes but they still remain in the environment. The accumulation of plastic waste has become a serious global problem. South Korea nurtures the white biotechnology industry that focuses on the creation and distribution of biodegradable bioplastics.
