Far Eastern New Century (FENC), a global leader in eco-friendly polyester materials, achieved a milestone by converting waste PET bottles into recycled thermoplastic polyester elastomer (rTPEE). This bio-inspired material offers high elasticity, cushioning, and rebound, suitable for footwear midsoles.
The rTPEE reduces carbon emissions by 10–30% compared to virgin TPEE, supporting the footwear industry’s shift toward sustainability. It has been commercialized and supplied to SALOMON for its amphibious shoes, demonstrating market potential.
FENC leverages its expertise to develop various recycled polyester (rPET) components, including shoe uppers, laces, linings, insoles, shanks, and toe caps. These components are designed as “single-material, fully recyclable,” promoting circularity in footwear.
Beyond recycling waste PET, FENC has developed FENC® TopGreen® AirTek PU technology, which uses captured CO₂ as a raw material. This innovation produces high-performance, elastic materials without toxic chemicals like phosgene or isocyanates.
Compared to conventional polyurethane, AirTek PU reduces carbon emissions by up to 58%, combining eco-friendliness with high functionality. It supports safer, low-carbon manufacturing processes in footwear and textiles.
FENC received the Second Prize at the “Best CO₂ Utilisation 2025” Innovation Award in Cologne, the first Asian company to do so. This recognition highlights the company’s leadership in sustainable materials and bio-driven innovations.
FENC continues to develop bio-based and low-carbon technologies. This way, they keep promoting circular economy principles and working toward a net-zero future through sustainable material solutions.
