These days, it’s easier than ever to find substitutes for meat and other animal products, including leather!
Grocery stores across the country are stocking plant-based foods to meet the rising demand. Companies are also finding ways to produce more environmentally-friendly and cruelty-free products. For example, Mexican entrepreneurs Adrián López Velarde and Marte Cázarez came up with an innovative use for cactus leaves.
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Adrián and Marte used to work in the auto and fashion industries, respectively. Both regularly used leather on the job, which, they learned, is harmful to animals and the environment. Not only does it require huge amounts of water to produce, but it isn’t biodegradable because it’s treated with toxic chemicals.
Concerned, the two men took it upon themselves to create an alternative. They quit their jobs, started the company Adriano Di Marti, and spent the next two years researching plant-based materials. Then, they hit the jackpot – cacti!
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In 2019, the duo debuted “Desserto,” vegan leather made from Nopal cactus leaves. It’s a better solution than faux leather made from plastic, as it’s more eco-friendly. Plus, cacti don’t require much water. What’s more, the process doesn’t even kill the plant! The leather is made by cutting, cleaning, and mashing mature cactus leaves, then leaving them out to dry for three days. After that, the material is mixed with non-toxic chemicals, shaped, and dyed.
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The best part? It looks and costs the same as animal leather, but it’s biodegradable, breathable, soft, and lasts for up to 10 years!
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Adrián and Marte hope to eventually replace all animal leather with theirs and create jobs in the process. Some brands have already started using Desserto to create purses, wallets, and other accessories.
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What a brilliant and sustainable solution! Desserto products are sure to make a positive impact on the environment, so we can’t wait to see other brands using it as well!
Learn more about Desserto in the video below, and share to spread the word!
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