What is CYNTHIA®?
CYNTHIA® is a groundbreaking bio-based fiber, crafted from the invasive Water Hyacinth plant. Available in a wide range of sizes—from fine flour to long fibers—this versatile material is designed for various applications, especially in building and construction sectors like insulation and wood plastic composites (WPC). Developed by In-Between International, a Belgium-based company, CYNTHIA® represents nearly a decade of research and innovation, resulting in a patented process spanning 100 countries. This new fiber offers a sustainable alternative to traditional natural fibers, meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly materials while tackling environmental challenges head-on.
Main Benefits of CYNTHIA®
What sets CYNTHIA® apart? Here are some key advantages that make it a game changer:
- An attractive price/performance ratio that competes with existing fibers.
- A significantly lower environmental impact—think lower carbon footprint, zero land use, no pesticides or fertilizers needed, which means more land stays available for food production and forest conservation.
- A strong social impact: rivers clogged by Water Hyacinth are freed up for normal use like food gathering and traffic, plus new jobs are created in rural areas.
The Problem: Water Hyacinth Invasion
Water Hyacinth is often called “Planta Non Grata” for a reason. This free-floating aquatic plant has invaded over 100 countries worldwide and is considered the world’s worst weed. It chokes rivers and lakes, blocks sunlight, reduces oxygen levels in water, and threatens aquatic ecosystems, biodiversity, and fish populations. Climate change only makes things worse, accelerating its spread. The socio-economic and ecological damage caused by Water Hyacinth hits local communities hard and drains public resources trying to control it.
Innovative Approach Behind CYNTHIA®
The magic lies in the technical properties of Water Hyacinth, discovered by In-Between International. Their patented process transforms this invasive plant into a sterilized, bio-based fiber that can be tailored in shape and size to fit different industrial needs. Once the first production unit is operational, this approach promises efficient river management, reducing government spending on Water Hyacinth control while creating a profitable, renewable industrial material. Plus, the facilities are easily replicable worldwide, making this a scalable solution.
Environmental and Social Impact
Harvesting Water Hyacinth daily helps clear rivers and waterways, restoring natural ecosystems and improving water quality. Each production unit creates between 35 and 160 local jobs, spanning low to high-skilled positions. Importantly, this method avoids the use of harmful pesticides, which are often ineffective and damaging. It also reduces public health risks like dengue and malaria by controlling mosquito breeding grounds. The plant’s high water evaporation rate helps decrease water loss, and the fiber itself is 100% natural, non-toxic, allergen-free, and easy to handle and install.
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation – by restoring waterways and improving water quality.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – through job creation in rural areas.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – via innovative bio-based industrial materials.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by using renewable, low-impact raw materials.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – thanks to a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional fibers.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – by conserving land for agriculture and forestry and restoring aquatic ecosystems.
Additional Features and Future Prospects
CYNTHIA® fibers boast the same technical properties as other natural fibers, such as density and thermal insulation, but with a crucial difference—they require no land or energy to grow. This leaves more space for food production and forest conservation. The process also includes a unique solar energy-based drying technology, making it even more sustainable. Beyond fibers, the leaves and roots of Water Hyacinth can be used to produce renewable energy, adding another layer of environmental benefit. Overall, CYNTHIA® is not just a fiber; it’s a holistic solution addressing ecological, social, and industrial challenges all at once.
