Hello! I’m Kimura from the ApparelX Sustainable Team.
You often see terms like “bio nylon,” “bio polyester,” and “bio urea” these days.
While they may sound environmentally friendly, many people probably wonder, “What exactly are bio materials made from?”
This time, as a first step toward understanding sustainable materials, we’ll clearly explain what “bio” really means.
What does “bio” mean?
In the materials field, “bio” means that biomass, a raw material derived from living organisms, is used.
Until now, many materials have depended on petroleum-based raw materials, but bio-based materials replace part or all of that with renewable biological raw materials.
What is biomass?
It means the mass of biological resources, and generally refers to organic matter derived from plants and animals that can be used as an energy source.
Main raw materials for bio-based materials
The raw materials used in materials called “bio ○○” are mainly the following:
・ Corn
・ Sugarcane
・ Wood (cellulose)
・ Tubers such as cassava
・ Vegetable oil
・ Components obtained through microbial fermentation
These are renewable resources that are not easily depleted, and they form the foundation of sustainable material development.
Why are bio-based raw materials getting so much attention?
The background is growing concern about environmental issues.
・ Moving away from dependence on petroleum
Petroleum is a limited resource. By using bio-based raw materials, we can reduce dependence on fossil resources.
・ The idea of carbon neutrality
Plants absorb CO₂ during their growth process.
Using plant-derived raw materials is thought to help reduce CO₂ emissions across the entire life cycle of a material.
“Bio” does not mean “returns to nature”
This is an area that is often misunderstood.
Bio-based materials mean that they use "raw materials derived from living organisms", and they are not necessarily biodegradable.
There are materials that do not decompose even if they are bio-based
・ In many cases, only part of the material is bio-based
・ Many are designed with performance and durability as priorities
That is why specific labeling such as “bio-derived” or “biomass xx%” is now considered important.
Examples of “bio ○○” used in apparel
In fashion and accessory materials, the following materials are used.
・ Bio polyester: polyester that uses some plant-derived raw materials
・ Bio nylon: uses plant-derived raw materials such as castor oil
・ Bio urea: urea resin made with bio-based raw materials
All of these aim to “maintain the functionality of conventional materials while reducing environmental impact.”
Points to consider when choosing sustainable materials
Rather than judging by the word “bio” alone, we recommend checking the following points.
・ What is the raw material derived from?
・ What is the bio-based ratio?
・ Is it biodegradable?
Does it suit the intended use and durability requirements?
By understanding it correctly, your sustainable efforts can become a more meaningful choice.
Here are a few bio ○○ products featured on ApparelX!
BNP-002
Bio polyester 4-hole button
This product is a button made using rapeseed oil cake, bagasse, and wheat straw.
CAS-1
Bio nylon 4-hole button
This button uses oil extracted from castor beans (non-food raw material).
PRV-48
Bio urea 4-hole button
This button is made using sugarcane bagasse.
Summary
What did you think? The “bio” in “bio ○○” means that raw materials derived from living organisms are being used. It is a practical approach to reducing dependence on petroleum and lowering environmental impact.
By understanding the background and meaning of materials, sustainable choices may feel more familiar and easier to justify.
In addition to the products introduced here, we also offer biomass products, so if you are interested, please take a look here.
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