Leather is a popular material used in a variety of products, from clothing and shoes to handbags and furniture. However, the production of leather can be harmful to the environment and to animals. To address these concerns, a number of companies are developing vegan leather alternatives.
One such company is Phool, an Indian startup that makes vegan leather from discarded temple flowers. India produces an estimated 8 million tons of floral waste each year, much of which is dumped into rivers and lakes, where it pollutes the water and contributes to algae blooms.
Phool collects discarded temple flowers from temples in Kanpur, India. The flowers are then cleaned and sorted, and the petals are removed. The petals are then treated with a natural tanning process to create a leather-like material called Fleather.
Fleather is a durable and versatile material that can be used to make a variety of products, including handbags, wallets, shoes, and belts. It is also biodegradable and compostable, making it a more sustainable alternative to animal leather.
In addition to its environmental benefits, Phool also provides economic and social benefits to the local community. The company employs over 100 women, many of whom come from marginalized backgrounds. Phool also provides its employees with training and development opportunities, and it offers a number of benefits, such as health insurance and paid time off.
Other organizations in India that make vegan leather from discarded temple flowers include:
- Malai Eco
- Aulive
- A Big Indian Story
These organizations are all working to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry and to create sustainable alternatives to animal leather.
Conclusion
Vegan leather made from discarded temple flowers is a promising new material that has the potential to revolutionize the fashion industry. It is a sustainable, durable, and versatile material that can be used to make a variety of products. Additionally, the production of vegan leather from discarded temple flowers provides economic and social benefits to the local community.
