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Planet First in partnership with HKRITA

Project time period

2020 — 2024

In collaboration with our long-standing research partner, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA), we run the Planet First programme, dedicated to researching and implementing practical solutions for the textile and fashion industry.

Cellulose powder from the Green Machine

Key projects within Planet First

The Planet First programme is a scale-up from our previous collaboration with HKRITA, named Recycling Revolution (2016-2019). Planet First seeks technologies that not only minimise fashion’s negative environmental impact but actively contribute to the planet’s well-being.

All solutions and learnings are shared openly with the industry, to maximize collective progress.

“We don’t have a roadmap as we are building the roads. I think it will be exciting.” 

Edwin Keh, CEO at HKRITA
Edwin Keh, CEO of HKRITA
Edwin Keh, CEO of HKRITA

The guiding principles of Planet First:

  • Speed: Applied research and iterative developments allow us to adapt quickly and progress efficiently.
  • Scale: Partnering with industry stakeholders from the start enables rapid deployment and widespread adoption of solutions.
  • Impact: All insights and technologies are freely shared to maximize the impact.

“We see the term ‘planet positive’ as directional and a call to action. It represents our vision for a textile and fashion industry that not only minimises harm but actively restores and improves our planet’s resources.”

Christiane Dolva, Strategy Lead H&M Foundation
Christiane Dolva, Strategy Lead H&M Foundation

Most ambitious program in fashion industry

The H&M Foundation is donating USD 12 million (SEK 100 million) and the Hong Kong Government’s Innovation & Technology Fund (ITF) gives additional funding based on our donation under the existing funding mechanism, which results in a total estimated budget of USD 100 million over five years.

“To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious program in our industry to move the needle in this field.”

Edwin Keh, CEO of HKRITA

The portfolio consists of around 30 research projects and ranges from developing textiles that can sequester CO2 (Carbon Looper), a retro fit technology that can separate microplastics in water through sound waves (Acousweep) to opening up a first-of-its-kind lab (Open Lab) where innovators, researchers, suppliers and brands can convene, innovate, and scale together. The Open Lab is set to open in late 2024.

Key projects within Planet First

Project Specifics

  • Period: 2020 — 2024
  • Countries: Global and Hong Kong SAR, China
  • Focus Areas: Planet Positive
  • Partners: HKRITA

Donation: USD 100 million (H&M Foundation donates USD 12M, the Hong Kong Government’s Innovation & Technology Fund gives additional funding based on our donation under existing funding mechanism, which results in a total estimated budget of USD 100 million over five years)

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