Free of toxic chemicals, phthalates, PVC, and its PETA approved vegan. (Credit: Materialdistrict.com)
Called Desserto, the leather alternative was developed by two young Mexicans, Adrián López Velarde and Marte Cázarez. According to an article on Materialdistrict.com, the material is a response to the environmental footprint of the fashion industry.
The leather is made from the nopal cactus, also known as prickly pear. This species is found in abundance in Mexico, where the plant serves as a food source and is used in anything from soups and beverages to breads and candy. The cactus is also used in dyes.
