10089045Development of filtration process Applicable to SAGES Food Waste Dyes allowing for greatly expanded industrial applicationsClosedInvestment AcceleratorInnovate UKThis project aims to be a game-changing innovation that will redefine the world of sustainable fashion and coloration. Alice Simpson, The Technical Director of SAGES, a trailblazing natural dye company, will conduct innovative research, weaving together eco-consciousness and cutting-edge science to create a more colourful and sustainable future. **ABOUT SAGES:** SAGES is a pioneering start-up dedicated to revolutionising the fashion industry by offering natural textile dyes made from food-waste. Current synthetic dyeing practices account for a staggering 80% of the industry's emissions, and are made up of non-biodegradable chemicals that are toxic, mutagenic, carcinogenic, and highly polluting. While natural alternatives exist, they have struggled to gain traction due to their inability to meet industry standards for colorfastness, wash-fastness, and rub-fastness. SAGES is the brainchild of two innovative female founders, both with extensive backgrounds in the fashion industry, who are on a mission to disrupt the £9.1bn global synthetic dye market and scale up their innovative natural dyes. Their research is assisted by expertise from Cranfield University and they are developing a range of six vibrant colours which are set to launch in early 2024\. SAGES has received recognition and support for their novel work, including grants and funding from organisations such as the eBay Circular Innovators fund, the Greenhouse at Imperial College London, Cranfield Universities' Green Futures Investment Fund, Innovate UK and The Worshipful Company of Dyers. They are committed to sustainability and environmental friendliness is at the heart of their mission. Their circular manufacturing process reduces CO2 emissions, conserves energy, and minimises waste, making SAGES a beacon of eco-innovation in the textile world. **THE PROJECT:** _Development of filtration process applicable to SAGES food-waste dyes allowing for greatly expanded industrial applications._ SAGES will enlist the help of Cranfield University, a previous collaborator, to develop an innovative filtration process for their novel food-waste dyes. Turning avocado pits, onion skins, and other food leftovers into a kaleidoscope of captivating colours that breathe life into the fashion industry and beyond. The developed filtration process will further refine the current dyes by filtering out the undesirable sugars and proteins, leaving behind the desired colour-causing molecular pigments. The result will be a pure, potent, and versatile dye extract that can be applied for uses in various industries. From enhancing the visual feast on your dinner table with eco-friendly food colouring, to bringing life to sustainable plastics and cosmetics.