Something big is happening at the smallest level of fashion materials. The fashion industry has long grappled with environmental challenges, but Israeli material science company Balena is leading a transformative shift toward truly circular materials. Founded in 2020 and based in Tel Aviv, Balena has developed what industry experts are calling a game-changing solution to the plastic waste crisis plaguing consumer goods manufacturing.
The Innovation Behind BioCir® Materials
Balena’s flagship innovation, BioCir®, represents the world’s first fully compostable and biodegradable flexible thermoplastic material specifically designed for fashion and consumer applications. Unlike conventional bioplastics that often compromise on performance, BioCir® materials deliver exceptional strength, flexibility, and processing compatibility while maintaining full circularity.
Balena addresses industry challenges by emphasizing the need for better alternatives to conventional plastics, which are typically designed without a clear end-of-life and contribute to waste, pollution, and recycling difficulties. Their BioCir® material range provides a comprehensive solution by being biobased, biodegradable, and recyclable.
The technology works by combining biobased polymers with precisely designed degradation triggers, ensuring durability during use but controlled breakdown at the end of life. This innovative approach allows BioCir® materials to seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing methods like injection molding, extrusion, and 3D printing, making it easy for brands to switch without changing their processes.
Industry Recognition and Certifications
Balena’s commitment to sustainability has earned significant industry recognition. The company recently secured one of the most credible industrial compostability certifications from DIN CERTCO, part of the German Institute for Standardization. This certification validates that BioCir® materials are fully biodegradable and compostable, enhancing trust with customers and reinforcing their sustainability claims.
Maria Zherebtsova, Investment Director at Raw Ventures, points out: “This validation confirms Balena’s claims that their materials are fully biodegradable and compostable. It’s crucial to back up the assertions made to their customers.” The certification not only backs Balena’s environmental claims but continues to enhance trust with customers and reinforce the authenticity of their environmental initiatives.
The company has also achieved notable success in innovation competitions, with their collaboration with Variable Seams reaching the finalist stage at the esteemed 3D Pioneers Challenge. Additionally, Balena secured a spot in Fashion for Good’s 2024 Innovation Programme, launching them into a nine-month journey of validation and support.
Strategic Partnerships Driving Market Adoption
Balena’s biggest success has been proving that circular materials can scale through strategic partnerships with leading fashion brands. The company has successfully partnered with Stella McCartney, Vivobarefoot, Forever Soles, and Lemon Jelly, integrating BioCir® materials into their production workflows. These collaborations show that Balena believes brands don’t have to choose between performance and sustainability; they can have both.
A particularly noteworthy partnership with Stella McCartney showcases BioCir® Flex in the new S-Wave Sport trainers for the Autumn 2025 collection, set for release in April 2025. This collaboration represents what Balena describes as a groundbreaking step in sustainable fashion, merging Stella’s visionary approach to circularity with Balena’s revolutionary material innovation.
Balena has also partnered with Forever Soles, a renowned sole manufacturer with over 50 years of experience, to create fully compostable soles using BioCir®flex material. The partnership leverages Balena’s innovative material with Forever Soles’ mold injection processes, offering a glimpse into a future where footwear is both high-performing and fully circular.
The practical benefits of this approach include compatibility with conventional machines used for traditional plastics, eliminating the need for different injection molding equipment or changes to existing infrastructure.
Comprehensive End-of-Life Solutions
Beyond material innovation, Balena has pioneered the BioCycling program, a comprehensive end-of-life solution that ensures products reach the end of their life responsibly through biological recycling. The company has established partnerships with a global network of industrial compost facilities that have validated BioCir®flex for use in their facilities.
The BioCycling program guarantees the full decomposition and return of BioCir® materials to the soil, promoting a fully circular process. This initiative addresses one of the biggest challenges in sustainable fashion by directly connecting brands with industrial composters, simplifying the path toward truly compostable products.
Looking Forward
As the fashion industry continues to seek sustainable alternatives, Balena’s BioCir® technology marks a significant advancement in material science. With proven certifications, successful brand partnerships, and a comprehensive end-of-life solution, the company is positioned to lead the transformation toward a more sustainable future in fashion and beyond.
The company’s mission extends beyond just creating better materials, focusing on helping foster a truly circular economy with responsible end-of-life solutions for consumer products. Through continued innovation and strategic partnerships, Balena is proving that sustainability and performance can coexist, setting new standards for the industry.
