A California-based bio tech company has discovered a new sustainable way to create leather. The company, MycoWorks, uses mycelium from fungi to create the animal-like texture. According to Patrick Thomas, CEO, this has been the first to produce a vegetal products that is just as good or even better than the real quality.
MycoWorks uses engineered mycelium cells. As they grow into 3D structures, they become as tough as real leather. Other cells that have not been genetically modified produces weaker material compared to mycelium. These cells can be grown in trays in a short amount of time. After it is harvested, it is painted to look authentic. After this process, the final product is called Reishi. It also includes chromium free chemistry, which is considered safe to wear.
Reishi has already made its way into the fashion world. It has been included in the Victoria bag from Hermes, as well as Stan Smith shoes from Adidas and yoga products from Lululemon.
The idea of vegan leather originated from the climate crisis and motivated scientists and innovators to discovers ways in which they can reduce deforestation and methane emissions. Manufactoring real leather contributes heavily to these issues, as well as livestock. Livestock makes up 15% of greenhouse gases in the world.
Some critics say that Reisha isn't truly sustainable because of the fact that it is only sold as luxury goods, instead of average products sold at lower prices. Some also question if there can be enough product made to sustain many traditional businesses.
