OUR STORY
Clean, Circular, Canadian Materials
ZyloTex™ is reshaping the future of materials by transforming Canadian-grown hemp into high-performance, biodegradable fibres. Born from a deep commitment to sustainability, we use a closed-loop lyocell process that’s cleaner, safer, and radically more responsible than conventional methods. By turning agricultural waste into a valuable resource, we’re helping reduce the world’s dependence on cotton and synthetics. Our goal? Create a circular, local textile economy that doesn’t compromise performance or the planet.
Learn more about lyocell from hemp.
OUR MISSION
To transform Canadian-grown hemp into next-generation lyocell fibres — building a regenerative, local textile industry that delivers performance, sustainability, and global impact.
From the beginning, Zylotex was built on a simple conviction: the next generation of textiles must be regenerative, not extractive.
The idea first took shape with a bold question: Could Canadian-grown hemp become the backbone of a new fibre industry? Working alongside local partners, the early experiments showed that agricultural byproducts — bast and hurd from hemp stalks — could be transformed into a high-quality lyocell pulp, now known as ZyloPulp™.
The name ZyloTex™ draws from xylem — the vascular tissue in plants that carries water and nutrients, the lifeblood of nature. It reflects our vision: harnessing the strength of nature’s own systems to create sustainable fibres that give back more than they take.
ZyloTex™ has formed a pivotal partnership with Plantae Technologies, positioning the company to move from pilot to commercial scale, bringing Canadian hemp-based lyocell one step closer to market.
Why does this matter? Today, global textiles drive deforestation, pollute waterways, and fill landfills with microplastics, while cotton and synthetics dominate supply. ZyloTex™ offers a better path: turning hemp — a low-impact, carbon-sequestering, locally grown crop — into high-performance, biodegradable textiles. Comfortable, breathable, and compostable, these fibres represent a new standard for a sustainable textile future.
MEET OUR FOUNDER
Lelia Lawson, BSc, MSc
Lelia is the founder and Chief Technology Officer of Zylotex™. She holds a BSc and MSc in Human Ecology (Textiles & Clothing) and is currently pursuing a PhD in the Department of Human Ecology at the University of Alberta. Her research focuses on regenerated cellulosic fibres derived from hemp feedstock.
With over two decades experience in industrial personal protective clothing, Lelia brings deep expertise in textiles, product development, and quality systems.
Stay up to date with ZyloTex™
Read the latest news and developments from the ZyloTex™ team.
Why Zylotex Is the Answer, Part 3: Resilient, Sustainable, Canadian
The textile industry is searching for solutions that address supply chain resiliency, cotton alternatives, and synthetic fiber replacements while reducing
Why Zylotex Is the Answer, Part 2: Hemp + Lyocell — Building the Sustainable Fiber of the Future
The future of textiles lies in next-generation fibers that combine performance, scalability, and sustainability. One of the most promising innovations
Why Zylotex Is the Answer, Part 1: The Global Fiber Crisis and Why Cotton & Synthetics Can’t Keep Up
The global textile industry is facing a fiber supply crisis. With demand for textiles and nonwovens rising every year, the
Ancient Forest Friendly and Next Generation Solutions Policy
Zylotex is committed to playing a leadership role in valorizing agricultural and wood waste, offering a scalable alternative to wood
Plantae Technologies and Zylotex enter into an exclusive joint development agreement to commercialize hemp fibre-based lyocell production
Written by Ian Wilson – Originally posted on Plantae Technologies on May 13, 2025. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Company Contact:
How Hemp Could Boost Canada’s Textile Industry
An Edmonton researcher wants to introduce hemp to Canada’s textile manufacturing industry. Lelia Lawson, founder and chief technology officer of