Piñatex Vegan Pineapple Leather
Developed by Dr. Carmen Hijosa, Piñatex is growing in popularity. It’s a promising possibility for any business that currently uses leather, including the fashion industry, furniture production, and car upholstery.
In the 1990s, Dr. Hijosa was working as a leather industry consultant. During a trip to the Philippines, she saw the negative effect that local tanneries had on both the environment and the people involved. In addition to this, she observed that the leather itself was of poor quality.
After seeing the Barong Tagalog — a Philippine garment that utilizes plant fibers — Dr. Hijosa was inspired to create an alternative to leather. Motivated by the possibility of a textile that would provide both a positive social and environmental impact, she began developing Piñatex.
This seven-year journey included pursuing a doctorate degree at the Royal College of Art in London. Through the college’s incubator program, Dr. Hijosa created Ananas Anam, the company that currently produces Piñatex.
Why Do We Like This Brand?
Ethics
With zero animal products being used at any point during the production, Piñatex is a 100% vegan material. Its quality, as well as its luxurious look and feel make it a viable plant-based alternative to animal leather. Piñatex’s versatile application can help to reduce or eliminate the need for animal-based materials across various industries. Additionally, farming communities now have the opportunity to make additional income from pineapple leaves, instead of burning them or throwing them out.
Sustainability
Piñatex is made from the fibers of pineapple leaves. After these fibers are extracted, the leftover biomass is used as a fertilizer or biofuel, ensuring that no part of the plant is wasted. Once the fibers are separated, they are de-gummed and processed into rolls of non-woven mesh. These rolls are then sent to Spain for a finishing process that creates the signature leather-like appearance. Since Pinatex is made from a by-product of the existing pineapple harvest, it requires no additional water, land, or other environmental resources.
Quality
Anyone who has shopped around for leather alternatives can attest to the fact that not all options are created equal. If you’ve been disappointed by a faux leather product before, rest assured that Pinatex offers something different.
Skeptics may be surprised to learn that renowned label Hugo Boss has jumped on board the Pinatex train. The fashion company is now selling stylish, Piñatex-crafted shoes for men. As noted on their website, it’s “footwear that makes a minimal imprint on the planet and offers a sleek BOSS look.”
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