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“Vegan leather” has become a major trend in the fashion industry, with brands embracing plant-based alternatives and plant-based leathers on the rise. But this rise in materials begs the question: Is “vegan leather” just plastic?
Why is plastic pollution a concern in fashion?
Plastic pollution is a challenge for the fashion industry
Plastic pollution is a major challenge for the fashion industry, with significant environmental impacts. Around 60% of the world’s clothing is made from synthetic materials such as polyester, which is widely used for its versatility and affordability. However, the production of these materials poses serious problems: it pollutes soil and water, emits greenhouse gases and, when washed, releases microplastics that contaminate waterways. This reality raises serious concerns about the ecological impacts of fashion, affecting the sustainability and ethics of the supply chain.
The environmental impact of synthetic materials
Synthetic materials like polyester and other plastic derivatives are ubiquitous in contemporary fashion. While their use is widespread for their durability and ease of care, they contribute significantly to plastic pollution. Mood Walk, as an advocate for sustainability, is committed to minimizing the use of these materials in its products, favoring eco-friendly and innovative alternatives like corn-based “vegan leather.”
What is “vegan leather”?
An alternative to animal leather
“Vegan leather” refers to any alternative to animal leather that excludes raw materials of animal origin. Traditionally, “vegan leather” was often associated with synthetic materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or PU (polyurethane), both of which are derived from petroleum and are a form of plastic. However, with changing consumer expectations for sustainability and technological innovation, many brands like Mood Walk are embracing more environmentally friendly alternatives. For example, Mood Walk uses innovative vegan leather made from corn, reducing the environmental footprint of its vegan sneakers while offering a stylish, cruelty-free option for consumers who are concerned about their environmental impact.
Towards a plastic-free future in fashion
The transition to sustainable and eco-friendly materials is essential for the future of fashion. Initiatives such as Mood Walk are leading the way by integrating responsible manufacturing practices and innovative materials into their collections. By encouraging the adoption of “vegan leathers” and other eco-friendly alternatives such as recycled cotton laces or recycled rubber in its soles, Mood Walk is actively participating in reducing plastic pollution and promoting more conscious and sustainable consumption.
The issue of plastic pollution in the fashion industry cannot be ignored. Synthetic materials, while often favoured for their efficiency and cost, pose major challenges for the environment. However, with the emergence of vegan leathers like those used by Mood Walk in its eco-friendly sneakers , there are now viable and sustainable alternatives. These innovations offer consumers the opportunity to choose fashion products that preserve natural resources while meeting the ethical demands of our times. By embracing these changes, we can collectively work towards a future where fashion and sustainability go hand in hand, reducing our ecological footprint and preserving our planet for future generations.
