Metsä Group has completed a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for its Kuura textile fibre, revealing a significantly lower global warming potential (GWP100, fossil) than conventional alternatives.
The study shows that Kuura’s emissions are less than one-third of viscose, one-fourth of cotton, and up to 80% lower than lyocell.
Developed by Metsä Spring, the innovation arm of Metsä Group, Kuura is currently in its demonstration phase at a pilot plant in Äänekoski, Finland. The fibre is produced using a fossil-free process integrated into a bioproduct mill, which generates excess renewable energy.
“This assessment confirms Kuura’s potential as a competitive, sustainable alternative in the textile market,” said Niklas von Weymarn, CEO of Metsä Spring.
In addition to its low emissions, Kuura has earned a ‘Green Shirt’ rating for the fourth consecutive year in Canopy’s 2024 Hot Button Ranking, recognizing its transparent, risk-free supply chain. With ongoing development, Metsä Group aims to introduce Kuura as a scalable, eco-friendly textile solution.
Metsä Group is rooted in the Finnish forest, with its parent company, Metsäliitto Cooperative, owned by over 90,000 forest owners. The company produces wood products, pulp, and paper used in everyday life worldwide, focusing on sustainable, innovative forestry.
