Recycled Fishing Line Swimwear Collection

Hyosung, the second largest spandex producer in the world, released the world's first recycled nylone swimwear collection (called "Eco-Panda") back in July 2009 comprised of Mipan regen recycled nylon and chlorine resistant creora.

Their Mipan regen recycled nylon is made utilizing post consumer waste from fishing nets which is then converted into high quality nylon with the same colour quality, consistency and uniformity as virgin nylon.

Featuring styles such as the Jungle Beat Monokini, the Jungle Beat Bandeau Halter Bikini and the Mandalay Halter Bikini, they are just as fashion-forward as their conventional cousins but a lot easier on the planet.

For the edification of eco-geeks everywhere, Regen nylon and polyester are the first synthetic yarns certified independently by the Global Certification Standard, meaning that they reduce energy consumption, reduce waste to landfill and conserve petroleum resources.

Hyosung claims that by recycling fishing nets, they are contributing 28% fewer greenhouse gases and actually using 27% less petroleum resources -- and while I can't confirm those statements to be 100% accurate, I do think that every little bit does help.

I'd like to see the industry get away from nylon entirely and instead go for natural, biodegradable fibers, but what Hyosung is doing is certainly a step in the right direction.