Decarbonising Artisan Textile Processes in Nepal – Solar-Thermal Solutions for Gradual Dyeing

AI Quick Summary

Challenges Addressed:Low-Impact Dyeing and Waterless Production TechnologiesSmart Textile Innovations and Circular Economy IntegrationNew Solutions for Corporate Social ResponsibilityInnovation Hypothesis:This project aims to transition Purest's Kathmandu dyeing facility from reliance on gas to a renewable, sustainable energy source that enables precise, gradual heating—critical for preserving the delicate integrity of luxury cashmere fibers and ensuring consistent, uniform dye absorption.We propose to develop a solar-thermal dyeing system tailored for artisan textile production, beginning the process with garments already immersed in cold water and dye mixtures inside metallic containers. The system will replicate the traditional gas-based approach by enabling slow and controlled temperature increases. It will utilize insulated thermal storage tanks powered by evacuated tube solar collectors, enhanced with low-voltage electric regulation (solar PV or hybrid) for consistent and programmable heat management.Why This Matters:In traditional cashmere dyeing, abrupt or uneven heating can damage fibers and affect dye uniformity. Replacing gas with solar-thermal energy must preserve the artisan methodology that begins with a cold-water bath and gradually raises the temperature—a requirement not addressed by most existing thermal solutions.Innovation Value:This project merges clean energy innovation with cultural textile heritage. It offers a scalable, fossil-free model for small-scale textile facilities across Nepal and South Asia. In doing so, it strengthens Purest’s climate-positive goals while preserving craftsmanship and supporting regional decarbonisation.For more information about our company and our sustainability programme, visit purest.com.

Project Idea Metadata

• Project Idea Name: Decarbonising Artisan Textile Processes in Nepal – Solar-Thermal Solutions for Gradual Dyeing
• Date: 6/19/2025 9:22:07 AM
• Administrators:
  • Patrick Garbini

Project Idea Description

Challenges Addressed:

• Low-Impact Dyeing and Waterless Production Technologies
• Smart Textile Innovations and Circular Economy Integration
• New Solutions for Corporate Social Responsibility

Innovation Hypothesis:

This project aims to transition Purest's Kathmandu dyeing facility from reliance on gas to a renewable, sustainable energy source that enables precise, gradual heating—critical for preserving the delicate integrity of luxury cashmere fibers and ensuring consistent, uniform dye absorption.

We propose to develop a solar-thermal dyeing system tailored for artisan textile production, beginning the process with garments already immersed in cold water and dye mixtures inside metallic containers. The system will replicate the traditional gas-based approach by enabling slow and controlled temperature increases. It will utilize insulated thermal storage tanks powered by evacuated tube solar collectors, enhanced with low-voltage electric regulation (solar PV or hybrid) for consistent and programmable heat management.

Why This Matters:

In traditional cashmere dyeing, abrupt or uneven heating can damage fibers and affect dye uniformity. Replacing gas with solar-thermal energy must preserve the artisan methodology that begins with a cold-water bath and gradually raises the temperature—a requirement not addressed by most existing thermal solutions.

Innovation Value:

This project merges clean energy innovation with cultural textile heritage. It offers a scalable, fossil-free model for small-scale textile facilities across Nepal and South Asia. In doing so, it strengthens Purest’s climate-positive goals while preserving craftsmanship and supporting regional decarbonisation.

For more information about our company and our sustainability programme, visit purest.com.