Leather is a popular material for making shoes, bags, and jackets, it’s something that we have largely come to accept as a fact of life. We see it everywhere. However, tanning leather is very harmful to the environment, and many people are looking for sustainable alternatives. Thankfully, fashion can be stylish, animal-free and high-quality without any real leather. We believe that no animal should have to suffer to make beautiful and functional bags or clothes, including footwear, jackets and other accessories.
In this blog post, we will discuss 5 cruelty-free and sustainable options for leather.
Cork Fabric
Cork fabric is a natural fiber-based material and an excellent addition to any wardrobe! It is a water-repellent, durable and scratch-proof silky fabric. Its breathability offers a comfortable feel, but what makes cork products really shine is the sustainability factor - it's created from the bark of oak trees harvested without damaging or harming the tree or environment in any way. Plus, with increasing environmental awareness and regulations popping up, using sustainable and renewable materials such as cork helps individuals do their part in helping the environment.
Cork manufacturing is not only ecologically friendly, but it is also commercially feasible, benefiting small farmers and local businesses. With such great qualities of comfort and sustainability, it’s no wonder cork fabric is becoming more popular!
Hemp
Hemp is an incredibly sustainable material that can be grown easily and without the use of any kind of pesticide or herbicides. But it doesn't end there - due to its naturally resistant properties, hemp is also resistant to mold and mildew, making it an extremely durable fabric choice, the material is purely plant-based and 100% biodegradable. These practical features make hemp a popular option for creating items like jackets, backpacks and more. Not only is hemp extremely sustainable - but thanks to its versatility and dependable quality, its usage extends far beyond that of other fabrics. And thanks to the many resources dedicated to the promotion of hemp cultivation, this sustainable textile continues to remain popular today!
Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester often called rPet, it’s an excellent, cruelty-free, and sustainable alternative to leather. It's created from recycled plastic bottles, which are melted down, spun into yarn, and then woven into fabric. Not only does this process help reduce the waste of plastic bottles - but it also helps conserve energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which helps to tackle climate change!
Scientists came to the conclusion that these recycled materials pose no health concern for humans whatsoever, this sustainable alternative can make all sorts of items, such as clothing, handbags, and backpacks. Its durability and water-resistant properties make it an ideal choice for those looking for a sustainable alternative to leather.
Beyond all that recycled polyester is far more ethical. No animals are harmed during the manufacturing process.
Pineapple Leather
Pineapple leather, also known as Piñatex, is one of the best-known vegan-friendly and sustainable alternatives to traditional leather, made from pineapple leaf fibers - a waste product of the pineapple industry.
The extracted fibers get washed and dried. After the fibers have dried, they are de-gummed. Pectin is the molecule that makes the leaves stiff (pectin gets released from the fiber). Once the pectin has been removed, the pineapple fiber becomes flexible, soft and similar to a cotton-like material, using a special process it gives Piñatex the surface and durability of leather that can be used across various industries, such as hospitality, home design and fashion like bags, clothing, watches, footwear and other accessories that have usually been made of leather. Its lightweight, breathability, comfortable and soft properties make Piñatex an excellent, eco-friendly alternative to leather that's beneficial for both the environment and the people.
Mushroom Leather
Mushroom leather is an environmentally friendly and sustainable material, made using mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms, since it’s made of natural fibers, it breathes and feels like leather.
This material is created through fermentation, resulting in a durable, pliable fabric that can be used for clothing, accessories, and more. It takes two weeks to grow to the size of a standard cowhide. For example, mushroom leather grows 70-80 times faster than animal leather, which needs about 3 years on average. Furthermore, not only is mushroom leather incredibly sustainable - but it’s also much softer than traditional leather, making it a comfortable choice for those seeking an animal-friendly alternative.
Final Thoughts:
These five cruelty-free and sustainable alternatives to leather are perfect for those looking to impact the environment positively and will play a big role in our future. From cork fabric to mushroom leather, there are plenty of options for creating stylish items without harming animals. Not only do these materials help conserve energy and reduce waste - but they also provide an ethical way for us to look fashionable. With increasing awareness of sustainability issues, these fabrics provide an excellent way for us to make ethical fashion choices without sacrificing style or comfort. So if you’re looking for a sustainable alternative to leather - one of these five materials may be the perfect choice for you!
Was this article helpful to you? Know any other sustainable alternatives? Let other readers know. Drop a comment below ♥
2 comments
Maddy
Great piece of writing!! For a long time I thought that vegan leather was just a fancy way of saying plastic leather. But now there are so many natural products to use..💚 Waiting for more posts! Cheers!!
Michelle
Very interesting!! Thank you for sharing