While the seeds are highly valued for food, oil, and protein products, the remaining stalks are often underutilized. This presentation explores how this agricultural by-product can become a new feedstock for advanced materials. By converting hemp straw into dissolving pulp and regenerated cellulose fibres, Zylotex aims to connect Canada’s growing hemp food industry with emerging opportunities in sustainable textiles and nonwoven materials. The result is a whole-plant utilization model that creates new value for farmers while strengthening Canada’s bioeconomy.

Lelia Lawson

Lelia Lawson is the Founder and CTO of Zylotex, a Canadian cleantech company developing tree-free cellulose materials from agricultural residues. She is a textile scientist and PhD candidate at the University of Alberta specializing in regenerated cellulose fibre systems and non-wood biomass pulping. Her work focuses on integrating agricultural feedstocks into next-generation fibre supply chains to support sustainable materials and bioeconomy development in Canada. Lelia is also active in the Canadian hemp and bioindustrial sectors through industry collaborations and standards initiatives.

ZyloTex

Zylotex is an Alberta-based advanced materials company developing tree-free cellulose pulp and fibres from agricultural residues such as hemp straw generated during food and oilseed production. By transforming underutilized biomass into high-performance materials for textiles, nonwovens, and industrial applications, Zylotex aims to create new value chains connecting agriculture and manufacturing while supporting Canada’s circular bioeconomy.

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📍 2026 Guild Location

The Guild now meets on the second floor at MKT Beer Market, 8101 Gateway Blvd NW

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