Launches a new range of upcycled construction materials

Initially producing concrete blocks from upcycled factory waste

Rs. 9 million investment initiative

Pro Green Lab to test out new applications for other industries

Redefining sustainable innovations through eco-conscious partnerships, Sri Lanka’s largest integrated textile manufacturer, Hayleys Fabric PLC announced a ground-breaking collaboration with Pro Green Laboratory of the University of Moratuwa to upcycle industrial waste and convert it into sustainable, environmentally friendly construction materials.

The partnership launched under the FaBriEco banner, aims to develop eco-friendly, low cost products for the local market from dye waste, fabric waste, and fly ash generated in the textile industry. The concept builds upon the research conducted by Pro Green Laboratories, led by Professor Rangika U. Halwatura, whose patents on sustainable products include mud concrete blocks and polymerized self-compacting mud blocks.

“This partnership is the first step in a transformative journey towards a greener future for our nation and our industry. By linking our sustainability team with Pro Green Labs, we hope to spearhead a paradigm shift in waste management and product development which could potentially catalyze the emergence of a truly circular economy,” Hayleys Fabric Managing Director/CEO Rohan Goonetilleke said.

Through the initiative, Hayleys Fabric hopes to shift away from traditional waste management practices into a model where resultant waste, toxic and hazardous, can be treated and re-used as a sustainable construction material.

The team led by Professor Halwatura is set to launch concrete blocks manufactured from dye waste, fabric waste, and fly ash generated in the textile industry. The study builds upon the ground-breaking research conducted at the lab and measures have been taken to develop other applications and uses.

“As a researcher and inventor, I am truly excited about our partnership with Hayleys Fabric as it brings together two organizations driven by a shared commitment to sustainability and innovation. We are poised to unlock solutions that can revolutionize the textile industry and together have the potential to develop eco-friendly technologies that transform waste into valuable resources, leading to a more circular and sustainable economy.

“I am excited about the possibilities this partnership holds and the potential impact we can make together. By combining our strengths and shared values, we are confident in our ability to pioneer transformative solutions that will shape the industry and drive sustainable innovation forward,” Prof. Halwatura said.

The initiative is the latest addition to Hayleys Fabric’s extensive portfolio of sustainable campaigns that align with their ESG objectives, inspired by the Hayleys Lifecode and their commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Hayleys Fabric has invested over Rs. 5 Mn in laboratory equipment and has sponsored various postgraduate research programs to demonstrate its commitment to advancing sustainable innovation.