I was advised NOT to write about faux leather vs real leather because it is just too controversial. I love leather but it is a fact that the industry is infamously known to be harmful to the environment. The tanning process uses chemicals that that land up in the local water supplies and the ecosystem. This is even more pronounced in developing countries where there is no regulation or they are ignored. Additionally, the animals are raised in deplorable conditions.
Wearing leather is an issue for vegans, but what about second-hand leather? Is recycled, or upcycled leather, an accepted opion for the vegan?
Pleather, faux leather or PU leather is a cheap synthetic leather that uses polyurethane, and polyvinyl chloride along with their environmental toxins. Which is the lesser of two evils? Many say it's the second-hand leather choice — particularly for shoes. There is some good news for vegans, coming in the future are ecological alternatives to leather! Look for shoes and faux leather clothing made of pineapple, apples, mushrooms, and even thin stone slates. Sweaters are already being made of banana silk, hemp, and cola bottles.
Look for these symbols
So what is the hot material to look for next season? Cactus leather! It's on the cutting edge for leather alternatives.
