The production of leather and textiles is, generally speaking, a resource-heavy process. There are, of course, hugely diverse impacts, whether human, animal or ecological, dependent upon material type and production methods. But the growth in popularity of vegan lifestyle choices, as well as an increased concern for animal welfare in livestock farming, has resulted in a growing number of innovative material developments as an alternative to animal skins. Leather substitutes are now being grown in the lab, instead of on the back of an animal. Fashion is entering a brave new world.
Some particularly innovative responses have been developed in an effort to offer alternatives. One of these is mycelium leather, or muskin. Made from fungus spores, the material mimics animal leather, with crisscrossing spores that are grown into a predetermined shape and size, thereby eliminating waste. The material is processed similarly to animal leather, only without the toxic chemicals, and is entirely biodegradable. The process generates an exceptionally soft material that is thick, strong and suede-like in texture. Muskin is also being used for interior design, as well as for packaging.
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