A site visit to Lotus Silk Farm, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, to discover how they are using lotus plants to create the worlds most sustainable textile. Created from the fibres in the stem of the plant, it is the worlds first natural microfibre with natural breathability, absorbency, and antimicrobial qualities.
The fibre can be cultivated naturally without the need for pesticides, fertilizers, or irrigation emphasising the sustainable practice. The farm embodies the principles of a circular economy - every part of the lotus plant is used to create valuable products including biofuel, minimizing waste and maximising resource efficiency.
Importantly, the social enterprise also focusses on empowering local communities and vulnerable women in rural areas with opportunities and fair pay, whilst preserving Cambodian heritage by using traditional weaving techniques.
Because of the nature and the sustainable craftmanship process, the lotus fabric is only available as a luxury material at the moment. However, as a symbol of purity and reawakening in Buddhist and Hinduism culture, Lotus Silk Farm demonstrates this plants huge potential for climate active solutions.