T-shirts are big business. We’ve all got one (or 30) in our closets, and their simple design makes them a ubiquitous staple across the world. In fact, 2 billion of them are sold worldwide every year. Problem is, though some are made with organic cotton, many are made with a blend of natural and plastic materials. That’s a huge number of tees that are destined to clog up landfill for eternity.

That’s the norm today. But how about tomorrow? That question has been on QWSTION’s mind. The Swiss bag manufacturer, famed for its Bananatex® fabric, is developing a new T-shirt that’s 100 percent plant-based and 100 percent regenerative.

Bananatex® (if you hadn’t already guessed) is made from banana plant fiber, organically cultivated in the Philippines. So far, QWSTION has used this durable material for its range of bags, packs and cases. But more recently, its designers have been developing ways to create a jersey knit version for T-shirts and, potentially, other garments.

The benefits of plant-based materials are clear: growing plants take CO2 out of the air rather than pumping it into the atmosphere like their evil, petrol-based cousins. Abacá, the banana tree family, grows in a permaculture ecosystem that doesn’t need irrigation or fertilizer, meaning it has little impact on its surroundings. And, when the item is at the end of its long and well-worn life, it fully composts and biodegrades, nourishing the soil and earth.

“Where can I get this awesome, new T-shirt?” I hear you ask. Well, QWSTION is still working on it, but your help is needed. To perfect the design of the “T-shirt of Tomorrow”, QWSTION is looking for people to take part in a limited-edition pilot program. Sign up for free, and then all you need to do is wear the tee and report back on how it holds up. Sounds like a pretty good deal.

Help design the T-shirt of Tomorrow today, by jumping over to the QWSTION website.