Press Release
October 2025 — The textile industry is on the brink of a sustainable transformation, thanks to an ambitious new project called DyeAnotherWay. Launched under the EU’s prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, this four-year initiative unites leading scientists from 14 universities and industry partners from across Europe and two institutes from the Americas to develop eco-friendly bacterial dyes and pigments that could revolutionize not only textiles but also food applications.
Today, most synthetic dyes are derived from petrochemicals, contributing heavily to environmental pollution and resource depletion. DyeAnotherWay is setting out to change that by harnessing bacteria to produce natural, renewable pigments that are safer for both the planet and human health.
“Our project aligns perfectly with the goals of the European Green Deal by offering more sustainable production pathways,” says Prof. Heidi Halbwirth, project coordinator and head of the Phytochemistry and Biochemistry of Natural Compounds research group at TU Wien.
Training Europe’s Next Generation of Innovators
The project will provide advanced training to 12 Doctoral Candidates, equipping them with expertise in biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry, market research, and more. This hands-on approach will foster a new generation of innovators capable of advancing sustainable dye technology.
“For the Vienna Textile Lab DyeAnotherWay represents a unique opportunity to collaborate with esteemed universities and project partners allowing to deep dive into microbial pigment development from the microorganism to the finished textile.” Karin Fleck, CEO of the Vienna Textile Lab.
Cutting-Edge Science for a Greener Future
By applying advanced genetic and analytical tools, the project aims to develop fully characterized biogenic dyes that can replace traditional petrochemical-based dyes across multiple sectors, including textiles and food. The potential benefits are significant:
- Reduced environmental impact
- Support for human health
- Opening new markets for eco-conscious products
Additionally, researchers will explore bacterial nanocellulose—fibre-like structures derived from sugar molecules—as another sustainable material for the textile industry.
Industry-Academia Collaboration
DyeAnotherWay thrives on collaboration between academia and industry. This robust partnership will ensure that discoveries move swiftly from the lab to practical, market-ready solutions. Doctoral researchers will also receive specialized training in entrepreneurship and communication, preparing them to lead future advancements in sustainable manufacturing.
“The textile industry is one of the most environmentally challenging sectors, and sustainable innovations are urgently needed,” notes Prof. Halbwirth. “By bringing natural dyes back to the forefront—this time powered by biotechnology—we are helping to shape a greener future for both industry and society.”
As awareness grows among consumers and stricter environmental regulations come into force, the economic viability of biological dyes is increasing. This renaissance of natural colourants, once the norm before the rise of synthetic chemistry in the 19th century, could soon see bacteria playing a central role in the future of sustainable design.
