Analysis


Wool-rubber composite: A sustainable


T


he need for leather substitutes in the fashion industry is driven by customer demand for cruelty-free and eco-friendly products due to concerns about animal welfare and the environmental harm caused by the creation of leather. As consumers become more aware of these issues, the fashion industry is increasingly exploring innovative materials that provide the strength and aesthetic appeal of traditional leather without detrimental consequences.


Leather International / www.leathermag.com Eco-friendly alternatives


There is already a large selection of man-made, synthetic substitutes – sometimes known as faux or artificial leather – available on the market due to shifting consumer preferences, while in the fashion business, eco-friendly leather substitutes such as vegan leather derived from pineapple (Piñatex), apple, mushroom (mycelium) and cactus are becoming increasingly well-liked. Leading the way in the use of these environmentally friendly


9


alternative


Dr. Seiko Jose, scientist at the Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, and Dr. Sunita Boruah, assistant professor at the Department of Textiles and Apparel Designing, Assam Agricultural University, discuss their development of a green leather substitute that combines coarse wool and natural rubber latex.


Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute


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