SUPPLIER
MODERN SYNTHESIS
Modern Synthesis is a biotech company bringing life to new materials. Founded by ex-Adidas designer Jen Keane and synthetic biologist Dr. Ben Reeve, the brand work with microbes to produce an entirely new class of nanocellulose-based materials which offer performance without plastics and aesthetics without animal inputs. Designed for applications within fashion and beyond, Modern Synthesisʼ 100% biobased materials not only displace animal leathers or plastic-based materials but also generate entirely new textile possibilities for designers.
SUSTAINABILITY PURPOSE
Modern Synthesis envisions a future where all human-made materials have a positive impact on the planet. Equipped with a renewed understanding of nature and biology, the brand has developed a novel class of microbially derived textiles that address environmental challenges perpetuated by traditional textiles, including plastic and chemical pollution, concerns over animal welfare, and land use. These innovative biomaterials rely on bacterial nanocellulose, an abundant, non-toxic and versatile raw material that eliminates the need for plastics, harmful chemicals and animal derivatives in textile production. Combining the natural performance of nanocellulose with cutting-edge textile science, these versatile materials can displace leathers and synthetic-coated textiles in fashion and beyond. The bacteria that produce the nanocellulose are also feedstock agnostic, meaning in the future the nanocellulose can be grown using agricultural waste feedstocks, enabling fully circular production and empowering a circular bioeconomy.
Established
2019
Headquarters
London, UK
First Certified
2024
Employees
22
Product Category
Biomaterials
Website
A WORD FROM THE CO-FOUNDER & CEO
Sustainability is no longer a “nice-to-haveˮ for brands; itʼs an imperative for business survival. We believe that fashion, with its history of pioneering design and setting the cultural direction, must now lead the way in material change. At Modern Synthesis, we are bringing life to a new category of low-impact, high-quality materials that can empower fashion and the luxury industry to grow up from a harmful past and drive positive change – without compromising on the artistry and elegance that define it.
JEN KEANE
CO-FOUNDER & CEO
WHY POSITIVE LUXURY
Pursuing ESG+ certification is a defining step in our journey towards a materially better future. This rigorous evaluation not only validates our efforts but also empowers us to establish trust and forge partnerships with like-minded brands dedicated to genuine, sustainable innovation. Just as our own technology evolves, we recognise that sustainability is an ongoing journey of refinement. The Butterfly Mark will serve as a constant reminder to ensure that our material solutions remain relevant in an ever-changing fashion landscape.
JEN KEANE
CO-FOUNDER & CEO
PATHWAY TO HIGHER STANDARDS
Modern Synthesis is actively working to increase accessibility to their sustainable biomaterials to unleash positive impact at scale. The brand are defining near and long-term sustainability goals to further cement their commitment to ethical practices, and are also developing an impact reporting framework to transparently track and share the progress of their targets and commitments with stakeholders