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Australian startup Alt. Leather has introduced an innovative plant-based leather alternative that is fully sustainable, containing no plastics and made entirely from natural fibers and agricultural waste. This new material aims to provide a circular, animal-free substitute for traditional leather, with potential applications in the fashion, footwear, upholstery, and automotive industries.
The composition of Alt. Leather’s product includes up to 10% upcycled materials sourced from textiles and cellulose that would otherwise end up in landfills or incineration. The company emphasizes that all ingredients are derived from regenerative plants that are widely available around the world. Currently, the material is undergoing rigorous testing to assess its recyclability and biodegradability, ensuring that its end-of-life considerations are prioritized.
In collaboration with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Alt. Leather has worked with material scientists to ensure that its product meets global ISO standards regarding strength, flexibility, color fastness, and abrasion resistance. Traditional leather production is known for its significant environmental impact, stemming from resource-intensive animal agriculture and the chemicals used in the tanning process. While synthetic leathers are typically animal-free, they often rely on petroleum-based plastics. Alt. Leather seeks to bridge this gap by offering a durable, plant-based alternative free from synthetic polymers.
The development process involved extensive research, with the team screening thousands of combinations of plant-based ingredients to create their proprietary formula. The result is a sustainable leather alternative designed for everyday use while also focusing on circularity.
Recognizing a market need for truly sustainable leather alternatives, Alt. Leather’s founder, Tina Funder, collaborated with CSIRO to harness Australia’s abundant regenerative plant resources and leverage advanced research facilities. Through CSIRO’s Kick-Start program, the company has successfully tested its formulations on small-scale extruders, paving the way for larger-scale production trials.
Additionally, participation in the India Australia RISE Accelerator and Circular Economy cohort has enabled Alt. Leather to access manufacturing hubs in Chennai and Noida, where their materials have been transformed into handbags and footwear. This experience has helped refine their supply chain strategy, supported by mentorship from experts across both countries.
Looking ahead, Alt. Leather plans to enhance the performance and composition of its material while seeking partnerships with brands committed to reducing their environmental impact. With increasing pressure on industries to adopt sustainable practices, Alt. Leather’s innovation represents a significant step toward the widespread adoption of circular materials in various sectors.
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