Perth startup Uluu has partnered with Norwegian outdoor brand Norrøna to develop seaweed-based waterproof and windproof apparel. The companies plan a small commercial range for late 2027 or early 2028. Uluu makes biodegradable materials from fermented seaweed.
Partnership details
The funded joint development agreement runs for several years. Payments are tied to performance milestones. The partners will prototype and test textiles and garments during 2027.
Uluu background
Uluu was founded in 2021. It ferments sugars from Indonesian seaweed into biodegradable PHA pellets. The company already supplies buttons for Australian sleepwear brand Papinelle.
How the material works
The pellets can be melted and spun into yarn and fabric. The resulting fibers perform like polyester and nylon. Uluu says the material does not shed persistent microplastics and can biodegrade naturally.
Uluu is planning a Series B raise to expand fermentation operations. It aims to build its first commercial plant in Australia and later plants overseas, including Indonesia. The company also wants to reach cost parity with fossil fuel-based plastics.