TIDAL.TEXTILE//
A Big Circle Studios X twyg collab.
Big picture, tidal.textile aims to develop a South African-made biomaterial derived from kelp along the Agulhas and Benguela Inshore seascapes. Partnering with coastal communities, we will utilise both harvested (wet) and washed-up (dry) kelp as feedstock, transforming this underutilised resource into a textile. This initiative stimulates local economies by creating non-seasonal income streams while integrating conservation efforts into its business model - allocating a portion of the profits from the production and sale of the tidal.textile for reinvestment into local communities, civil societies, and organisations dedicated to protecting the Great African Seaforest.
Tidal.textile aims to address environmental and social challenges while competitively positioning South Africa in the growing global biomaterials market - founded on circular and blue economy principles, ensuring responsible, sustainable, and efficient resource use.
To get us going, Kleinmond Protea Small Scale Fishing Primary Cooperative Limited, will harvest and supply the necessary kelp feedstock. In our current phase, we are aiming to produce at least 10 spools of tidal.textile yarn, publish research on the prototyping process and material impact, develop a roadmap for local biomaterials, and host workshops that foster skills and awareness of kelp and biomaterials.
Looking ahead, we will pursue blended financing through VC’s and grant facilities. Future phases of the project will explore a track-and-trace supply chain and carbon/ecosystem credits to reduce costs and strength engagement in South Africa’s bioeconomy.