Bast Fibre Technologies Inc. (BFT) has secured funding that will help the company to produce over 10,000 metric tons of sero™ hemp fiber per year by 2023 and up to 50,000 metric tons by 2026. With winning the strategic financing with Ahlström Capital of Finland, BFT will immediately begin work to expand fiber manufacturing capacity at its flagship facility in Lumberton (NC), USA, and its EU facility near Düsseldorf (NRW).
Hemp is one of the most versatile natural fibers globally, but it’s still not very popular with consumers. While hemp has many benefits for our health and environment, some misconceptions prevent people from using this fantastic fabric. Hemp is a very environmentally friendly crop.
It does not require pesticides or much water, yet it renews the soil with each growth cycle. Its extensive roots serve to minimize erosion.
Bast Fibre Technologies Inc. (BFT) is a triple-bottom-line cleantech fiber engineering firm that places equal emphasis on social, environmental, and fiscal responsibility. Using advanced fiber processing technology, BFT transforms raw fibers from cotton, hemp, and flax plants to meet the exacting standards required by nonwoven customers.
Jim Posa, CEO of BFT, said, “Nonwoven companies, converters, and leading consumer goods companies are looking for viable natural fiber options to achieve their corporate sustainability initiatives as they move away from synthetics. The market for natural fibers is set for rapid growth, and this highly strategic funding will help BFT to solidify its position and further accelerate its expansion to meet the increasing demand for tree-free, plastic-free fibers.
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