CiCLO® Technology Takes Home 'Behind the Seams Award' for Innovation and Leadership in Tackling Microplastic Pollution

GASTONIA, N.C., Sept. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Intrinsic Advanced Materials (IAM) announced that the Home Fashion Products Association (HFPA) has recognized CiCLO^® Technology with the 2025 Home Excellence Behind the Seams Award. This honor underscores the company's commitment to addressing one of the textile industry's fastest-rising concerns: microplastic pollution caused by the shedding of synthetic textiles. The Behind the Seams Award recognizes a supplier partner who has made an exceptional impact on the textile industry through innovation, meaningful partnerships, integrity, and leadership that drives positive change.

"We are honored and grateful for the recognition from such a prestigious organization," said Andrea Ferris, CEO and co-founder of IAM and co-inventor of CiCLO technology. "HFPA's mission to advance the growth of the global home fashion product industry by setting standards for excellence is vital to the health of our industry; for CiCLO technology to receive the Behind the Seams Award is tremendous validation for what we set out to achieve when developing it."

Research from the Ocean Conservancy indicates that each year, an estimated 6.5 million metric tons of microplastic pollution are released globally from textiles. CiCLO technology addresses this challenge by enabling synthetics to break down more like natural fibers, such as wool, rather than persisting in the environment. Seamlessly integrated into existing supply chains, it gives brands and retailers a practical way to lessen their environmental impact while maintaining performance, durability and recyclability.

The award also highlights the scientists and entrepreneurs who turned a complex problem into a practical solution. Their work bridges advanced materials science with fashion, home, and performance textiles, giving brands a way to differentiate while staying ahead of evolving expectations, from regulatory discussions on microplastics to corporate commitments to circularity.

The recognition comes as CiCLO technology gains traction in new markets and partnerships with global brands. The team is also active in raising consumer awareness about microplastic fiber pollution and sharing knowledge across the textile supply chain. By working directly with manufacturers, brands and retailers, CiCLO technology helps the industry take practical steps toward reducing environmental impact.

About Intrinsic Advanced Materials
Intrinsic Advanced Materials, LLC (IAM) is a pioneering force in sustainable textile innovation and the company behind CiCLO^® technology. This award-winning solution helps reduce the environmental impact of synthetic microfiber pollution. Founded in 2018, IAM is a joint venture between Intrinsic Textiles Group, LLC, a Silicon Valley innovation company, and Parkdale Advanced Materials, Inc., the performance fiber division of Parkdale Incorporated, the world's largest manufacturer of spun yarns, headquartered in Gastonia, North Carolina. Driven by a mission to combat microplastic pollution from textiles, IAM combines breakthrough science with deep industry expertise to deliver scalable, drop-in solutions for the global apparel and textile industry. CiCLO technology is produced in the USA and Asia. Synthetic fibers, yarns, and fabrics made using CiCLO are available worldwide, empowering brands and manufacturers to create high-performance products that are made to last, just not forever.

About CiCLO Technology
Launched in 2017, CiCLO technology is a textile ingredient that reduces the persistence of microplastic pollution caused by synthetic textiles. CiCLO technology allows synthetic textiles to break down naturally in the environment while preserving performance and recyclability. CiCLO technology is patented globally, proven safe for use in sustainable textiles with OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certification, and has been rigorously tested for biodegradation by third-party labs using internationally recognized ASTM and ISO test methods. Home, hospitality, apparel, and workwear products made with CiCLO technology can be found at major retailers and brands, including Target, Billabong, Oakley, Walmart, Champion, McDonald's, Bass Pro Shops, Best Western Hotels, and many more. For more information, visit www.ciclotextiles.com.

SOURCE Parkdale Mills Inc.