In a global context of growing demand for sustainable solutions, Alt. Leather, a startup based in Melbourne, Australia, has developed a revolutionary plant-based leather that does not use plastics or animal ingredients.
This material mimics the three-dimensional structure of animal leather, offering performance that meets strict international standards of resistance, durability, and flexibility. Furthermore, it has been designed to be completely recyclable, promoting a circular approach.
Alt. Leather’s plant-based leather is composed of ingredients derived from regenerative plants and agricultural waste, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional leather. 10% of its composition comes from recycled textiles and cellulose, avoiding the landfilling or incineration of these materials.
Among the main components are polysaccharides like cellulose and starch, along with recycled natural fibers and plant resins. This design ensures sustainability without compromising the quality of the product.
Leather from natural ingredients and circular production
Alt. Leather’s approach prioritizes the use of natural materials available globally in large quantities, eliminating the need for plastics and petroleum derivatives in the manufacturing process.
Thanks to its components, this plant-based leather not only aligns with the principles of circular economy, but also has the potential to reduce the environmental impact related to traditional tanning.
Alt. Leather’s circular design aims to create recyclable and biodegradable products. This allows for the utilization of agricultural waste to avoid its accumulation or destruction through burning, and significantly reduces the water and energy footprint associated with the traditional leather industry.
Global compliance and scalability
Alt. Leather has achieved ISO international standards in resistance, abrasion, flexibility, and color fastness, essential characteristics for demanding commercial applications. This technical compliance positions the material as a viable option against animal leather and synthetic leather.
To scale the technology, its founder Tina Funder collaborated with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), managing to develop a process adaptable at an industrial level. Initial trials on small-scale extruders proved successful, allowing progress towards pilot production in cities like Chennai and Noida, India.
Currently, products such as footwear and bags are being manufactured under acceleration programs like the India Australia RISE Accelerator.
Expansion and transformative potential
Alt. Leather is strengthening strategic partnerships with international brands interested in sustainable solutions, while continuing to optimize the performance of its material in formulation tests. Furthermore, the company has developed expertise in managing international supply chains, preparing for a strong global expansion.
This innovative plant-based leather has the potential to revolutionize the industry, reducing the use of animals and the impact of livestock, which is one of the main sources of methane emissions. By eliminating the use of plastics and utilizing agricultural waste, this material contributes to the transition towards regenerative and circular models.
In a world that seeks to advance towards more ethical and responsible industrial standards, technologies like the one developed by Alt. Leather are essential to combine performance with sustainability.
Cover photo: Alt. Leather
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