Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Two entrepreneurs from Mexico have developed a groundbreaking alternative to animal leather using cactus. Called Desserto, this leather made out of eco-friendly material is grown and produced in Mexico and has gained attention as a sustainable, partially biodegradable option for the fashion, automotive, and furniture industries.
Adrián López Velarde and Marte Cázarez, the creators of Desserto, are pioneers in making organic leather entirely from nopal, or prickly-pear cactus.
Their innovation offers an environmentally conscious solution to the pollution caused by traditional leather production, which often involves harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, cyanide, and arsenic, all of which contribute to water contamination and pose health risks to surrounding communities.
Raising livestock for leather and food production also contributes significantly to climate change. Livestock farming accounts for 14.5% of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, making the switch to plant-based materials like cactus leather a step toward reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
The choice of cactus as a raw material was strategic. This plant, thrives without water and can be found in abundance across the mexico. Its resilience and low environmental impact make it an ideal choice for sustainable production.
Desserto’s innovative approach has already garnered international recognition. López Velarde and Cázarez won the VII International Green Product Award in Munich, Germany, outshining more than 1,400 nominees from 52 countries.
A Sustainable Production Process
The production process for Desserto’s cactus leather is as sustainable as the material itself. The company uses young leaves from organically grown prickly-pear cactus plants. These leaves are harvested, cleaned, mashed, and then left to dry in the sun for three days before being processed into leather.
Cactus are naturally well-suited to desert climates, meaning they don’t require irrigation systems, which reduces their strain on natural resources. The plants are watered only with rainwater, and no pesticides or herbicides are used in their cultivation. When mature, the leaves are harvested without disturbing the plant’s roots, allowing it to regrow. This method preserves the soil and prevents the release of carbon, which would occur if the entire plant were uprooted.
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Desserto has taken great care to ensure sustainability throughout its production chain, from land use and resource management to the final product. The hope is that this innovative material will help reduce the environmental impact of industries such as fashion, automotive, aeronautics, and footwear, which are notorious for their contribution to global pollution.
Comparing Cactus Leather to Animal Leather
Cactus leather not only looks and feels like animal leather but can also be used in similar applications, such as shoes, handbags, and other fashion items. It’s a versatile material that offers the durability and aesthetic appeal of traditional leather without the environmental toll.
Despite being biodegradable, cactus leather is designed to last. Its lifespan is estimated to be around 10 years, depending on usage, making it comparable to many animal-based leather products. For example, wallets, whether made of animal leather or cactus leather, are typically replaced every 3-5 years, ensuring that the eco-friendly alternative holds up well under regular use.
For López Velarde and Cázarez, this isn’t just a business venture, it’s a mission. The goal is to redefine the leather goods market, push the boundaries of innovation, and offer high-quality materials crafted from sustainable alternatives. As the fashion industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, materials like cactus leather could play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable future.
(Raidi/Agung)
