Cirql Publishes LCA Results for rTPU Materials, Reporting Lower Carbon Footprint for Footwear Components
Cirql®, a sustainable materials innovator serving the global footwear industry, has released life cycle assessment (LCA) results for its Cirql® rTPU30™ and Cirql® rTPU50™ materials, developed in collaboration with footwear carbon-accounting specialist Carbonfact.
Announced from Ho Chi Minh City, the assessments highlight the environmental benefits of Cirql’s recycled thermoplastic polyurethane (rTPU) materials compared with conventional virgin TPU. According to the report, Cirql rTPU50™ achieves a 39% reduction in total carbon footprint versus virgin TPU, offering footwear brands and manufacturers a pathway to lower emissions at the material stage.
Carbonfact, known for its footwear-specific LCA expertise, conducted the studies using real factory performance data rather than generic industry datasets. Its platform enables brands and suppliers to perform product-level LCAs at scale in line with international standards such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and PEFCR.
Through the partnership, Cirql and Carbonfact have generated third-party verified environmental data covering circular footwear materials from raw material production through end-of-life impact. The companies also reported improved measurement accuracy for footwear midsoles produced using supercritical injection foaming technology.
Cirql said the partnership also enables footwear brands to access verified sustainability data directly through Carbonfact’s supplier platform, helping companies evaluate materials and make sourcing decisions aligned with climate and compliance goals. Carbonfact’s system automates LCAs across product ranges, including complex footwear models with multiple components and sourcing variations, while its in-house science team verifies all data shared with brands.
The announcement follows Cirql’s integration into Coats Group plc, after Coats completed its acquisition of OrthoLite in October 2025. Cirql, previously a subsidiary of OrthoLite, focuses on developing recyclable and compostable materials and components aimed at reducing footwear waste and landfill impact.
