About the tool
Future Up and Circular Innovations developed this tool in collaboration with Biobased Circular to explore and highlight the potential of bio-based polymers within the textile sector. The benchmark positions bio-based synthetic polymers alongside widely established plastics such as PET, and assesses their current maturity as well as their future potential in the market.
The benchmark is informed by insights from a broad range of industry stakeholders, including recycling experts, material innovators, and scientists, combined with targeted desk research. The aim is to provide a coherent and accessible overview to support informed discussion and decision-making.
The field of bio-based polymers is evolving rapidly, with new insights, innovations, and applications continuously emerging. As such, this tool should not be seen as a finite or definitive overview, but rather as a snapshot of current knowledge that contributes to a broader conversation about advancing circular solutions in the textile industry.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this tool is based on current research and industry knowledge (January 2026). It is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Sources for this research can be found here.
How to use
Use the sidebar to select materials and metrics you want to compare. Toggle materials on or off to add or remove them from the comparison view. Select metrics to focus on specific properties. The comparison cards will update automatically as you make your selections.
About the project
This benchmark is the result of the Biobased polymers in the textile sector project. Commissioned by BioBased Circular and carried out by Future Up and Circular Innovations in the second half of 2025, the project aims to stimulate knowledge sharing, unlock market opportunities for biobased textiles, and support the transition towards a more sustainable, circular and future-proof textile value chain.
White paper
A future vision for a biobased textile sector is outlined in an accompanying white paper. The paper explores why these materials hold promise as sustainable alternatives to conventional polymers and highlights challenges that must be addressed for them to reach their full potential. Read the white paper.
Contact
For questions, feedback, or collaboration opportunities, please reach out to us.