Microfiber Innovation Challenge Launch Event
About the Event
We’re calling all geniuses to join Conservation X Labs for the launch of the Microfiber Innovation Challenge, a $650,000 competition to source and support transformative innovations to address microfiber pollution. The launch event will feature leaders in sustainable fashion, scientists on the cutting-edge of microfiber research studying the impacts on our health & ecosystems, and insights from our brand partners about what the future of microfiber innovation looks like. Join us as we kick-off the Challenge application process, and begin our search for innovators with solutions to replace textiles that are sources of plastic microfibers, or develop improved textile manufacturing processes to decrease microfiber shedding.
We Are Live In
OUR SCHEDULE
"3 SECONDS" - A SHORT FILM directed by Spencer Sharp
An epic presentation of where humanity stands today and how we must all work together to make it to the fourth second.
WELCOME TO THE CHALLENGE
Welcome from Conservation X Labs Co-Founders, Alex Dehgan and Paul Bunje.
THE MICROFIBER PROBLEM
What is microfiber pollution and how does it impact humans and our natural environment? Hear from leaders in this space about their groundbreaking research and the importance of sourcing new innovations. Featuring Richard Kirby, Varun Kelkar, Anna Posacka, Charlie Rolsky, and Laura Hardman.
CALLING ALL GENIUSES
A message from Greenport Harbor Brewing Company's John Liegey
THE FUTURE OF FEEDSTOCKS
How can we prevent plastic microfiber pollution through replacement textiles, fibers, and feedstocks? Hear from a panel of experts on the opportunity for alternative and replacement materials for a microfiber-free future. Featuring Nicole Rawling, Megan Schuknecht, Neva Murtha, and moderated by Kamea Chayne.
THE FUTURE OF FASHION
What does sustainable fashion look like and why is circularity so important? Hear from a set of forward-thinking professionals on what a sustainable fashion industry means to them. Featuring Debbie Luffman, Sylvanie Meignié, and Najah Onn.
CALLING ALL GENIUSES
A message from The Microfibre Consortium's Sophie Mather
UPSTREAM PREVENTION OF MICROFIBERS
How can textile design and manufacturing processes be improved to prevent microfiber release into our environment? Hear from a panel of speakers on the opportunities for innovation in the textile production process for a microfiber-free future. Featuring Sophie Mather, Georgia Parker, Sylvanie Meignié, and moderated by Kamea Chayne.
BRAND PARTNERS
How do brands define the microfiber problem and what steps have they taken towards sustainability? Hear from our brand partners at Under Armour, Finisterre, The Queen of Raw, and Bolt Threads about their commitments to decreasing microfiber shedding and the innovations they hope to see emerge through the Challenge. Featuring Jeremy Stangeland, Stephanie Benedetto, David Breslauer, and Debbie Luffman.
CALLING ALL GENIUSES
A message from Under Armour's Kasey Jarvis, Randy Harward, and Lorin Hamlin
DIANE'S STORY
Short Documentary story about an environmental activist fighting plastic pollution in her community. Featuring Diane Wilson.
CALLING ALL GENIUSES
A message from The Flotilla Foundation's Oliver Plunkett
CHALLENGE DETAILS
Leaders on Conservation X Labs’ open innovation team invite you to participate in the Microfiber Innovation Challenge. A brief overview of the timeline, process, and guidelines. Featuring Barbara Martinez.
CALLING ALL GENIUSES
Hear from our Challenge partners committed to finding scalable innovations to address microfiber shedding. Featuring Randy Harward, Lorin Hamlin, Jeremy Douglas, Cassia Patel, Mark Spalding, Emily Byrd, Carolynn Box, Sophie Mather, Stephanie Benedetto, and Diane Wilson
CLOSING REMARKS
Features Conservation X Labs co-founders, Alex Dehgan and Paul Bunje.
