What if your clothing could help fight climate change? That’s the bold vision behind Ar.voree, a new t-shirt unveiled by Brazilian fashion brand Malwee. Designed to absorb carbon dioxide from the air and eliminate it during washing, this groundbreaking product represents a fusion of science, sustainability, and style.
Launched on the occasion of the International Day for Biological Diversity, Ar.voree is the first garment in Brazil made with fabric that captures atmospheric CO₂. During each wash, the captured gas is chemically transformed into harmless sodium bicarbonate, which is then washed away—marking a major leap forward in environmentally conscious fashion.
The technology behind this innovation, COzTERRA, was developed by Singapore-based startup Xinterra over two years of research. Initially intended for use in the construction industry, it has now been adapted for textiles through a unique collaboration with Malwee.
Functioning much like an activated carbon filter, the shirt can absorb up to 12 grams of CO₂ per day. Each wash "recharges" the fabric, enabling continuous use without losing its air-purifying abilities.
To put it in perspective: 25 Ar.voree t-shirts worn for one day can remove as much CO₂ as a fully grown tree does in 24 hours. While not a substitute for natural ecosystems, this textile innovation highlights the role fashion can play in supporting broader climate efforts.
Beyond the technological feat, this project is a cornerstone in Malwee’s broader climate strategy, which aligns with the United Nations’ Business Ambition for 1.5°C initiative. The company has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, and the Ar.voree t-shirt represents a tangible step on that path—a garment that regenerates rather than pollutes.
The t-shirt is currently available in black only, priced at approximately €20, and released as a limited edition through Malwee’s official website. It’s more than just clothing—it’s a wearable statement, inviting consumers to take part in climate action with every outfit.
This initiative resonates with a growing global trend of urban and consumer-oriented CO₂ capture, reminiscent of LIQUID3, a photosynthetic urban device developed by the University of Belgrade, which also aims to reduce carbon emissions while producing oxygen.
Fashion, long criticized for its environmental footprint, may now be part of the solution—and it starts with a t-shirt that breathes.
