Prince William is set to visit Colorifix, a British company and Earthshot Prize Finalist, that has developed groundbreaking sustainable dyes for the fashion industry using DNA sequencing technology.
The Prince of Wales will be accompanied by Academy Award-winning actress Cate Blanchett, who serves as a member of the Earthshot Prize Council, during his trip on June 19.
The innovative firm was recognised as a finalist in the 2023 Earthshot Prize competition under the 'Build a Waste Free World' category.
Their revolutionary approach harnesses colours found naturally in plants, animals and microbes to create environmentally-friendly dyes that dramatically reduce the fashion industry's reliance on harmful chemicals and excessive water consumption.
Prince William will visit the Earthshot Prize finalists, Colorifix
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Traditional fabric dyeing methods pose severe environmental challenges, consuming an astonishing five trillion litres of water annually worldwide - equivalent to two million Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Chemically synthesised dyes contaminate rivers and threaten wildlife as toxic substances seep into waterways.
Colorifix has developed a revolutionary alternative that begins by identifying colours produced naturally by organisms.
Scientists then use DNA sequencing to locate the genetic code responsible for creating these pigments.
The Prince of Wales will be joined by Holywood royalty Cate Blanchett at the engagement
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This genetic information is transferred into harmless microbes, which are sent to dye houses where fermentation produces the desired colours.
The process works with both natural and synthetic materials using conventional dyeing equipment, completely eliminating the need for petrochemicals.
During their visit, the Prince and Ms Blanchett will tour multiple laboratories to observe each stage of Colorifix's innovative dyeing process.
The demonstration will showcase how the company identifies DNA codes that produce natural pigments through to the final application of dye onto fabric.
The royal visitors will also receive a presentation on the substantial environmental benefits of the technology.
Colorifix's process delivers significant reductions in water usage, energy consumption and carbon emissions at every stage compared to conventional dyeing methods.
The visit highlights the Prince's ongoing commitment to supporting environmental innovations through the Earthshot Prize initiative.
Founded in 2016, Colorifix has secured partnerships with major fashion brands including H&M, Pangaia and Vollebak.
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William recently celebrated other Earthshot Prize finalists during his speech at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco
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The company has expanded significantly, now operating across three facilities in Europe and India with a workforce of 85 employees, and plans to extend operations to additional factories this year.
Recognition as an Earthshot Prize finalist has accelerated the company's growth trajectory. The Prize's support has provided crucial expertise in scaling biology-driven climate solutions and enhanced Colorifix's profile within the fashion industry.
This increased visibility has opened doors to new investors and potential partners, positioning the company for continued expansion in sustainable textile manufacturing.
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