The Art of Crafting with Pineapple Leather
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- July 28, 2023
A Sustainable Journey
The journey of creating sustainable alternatives in the world of fashion and design is an inspiring one, and Piñatex®—an innovative material made from pineapple leaf fibers—stands at the forefront of this movement. Developed by Dr. Carmen Hijosa after years of research and development, Piñatex® is not just a product; it’s a symbol of ethical innovation, sustainability, and mindful crafting.
The Beginning of Ananas Anam
The story of Piñatex® began in the 1990s, when Dr. Hijosa, a leather goods expert, was consulting on the Philippine leather export industry. While working in the country, she was shocked by the environmental impact of mass leather production and the toxic processes involved in chemical tanning. Witnessing the pollution caused by these practices, Dr. Hijosa knew that such a system could not continue. However, she also understood that synthetic alternatives like PVC were not a viable solution either. She was determined to find a way forward—a sustainable option that would allow the fashion and design industry to evolve in a way that respected both the planet and the people.
“Design is a connecting tool between people, economics and the environment – and out of this communion, understanding and respect new ideas and products with integrity can come about.” – DR CARMEN HIJOSA
Drawing inspiration from the rich natural resources of the Philippines, and the traditional use of plant fibers in garments like the delicate Barong Tagalog, Dr. Hijosa embarked on a journey to create a new textile. This new material needed to be something that could be commercially produced, support farming communities, and—most importantly—have a minimal environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle. After years of research, development, and sampling, Piñatex® was born.
The Inspiration Behind Piñatex®
Piñatex® is made from the fibers of pineapple leaves, an agricultural waste product, which means it doesn’t require additional land or resources to produce. This innovation is rooted in the principles of the Circular Economy and Cradle to Cradle design—where products are made with the end of their life in mind, ensuring that materials can be reused or recycled in the future. By using the leaves of pineapples, Piñatex® helps divert waste from landfills, making it a crucial element in reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing processes.
Beyond its environmental benefits, Piñatex® is also an economically empowering material. By utilizing agricultural waste, it provides a new avenue for income for farming communities. The process creates jobs and supports local economies, ensuring that the benefits of the product are shared with the people who cultivate the raw materials. This aspect of social responsibility is integral to the mission of Piñatex®—it’s not just about creating a sustainable material, but about building a sustainable future for the people involved in its creation.
The Vision of Dr. Carmen Hijosa
Dr. Hijosa’s vision is one that connects people, ecology, and economics. As an ethical entrepreneur, she has spent decades working to build a vibrant industry that operates with integrity. Her commitment to sustainability is not just theoretical—she has pursued it in every step of her career, from the research and development of Piñatex® to her active involvement in the ongoing creation of new products. After undertaking a PhD at the Royal College of Art and participating in the InnovationRCA incubator program, Dr. Hijosa has continued to push the boundaries of innovation in the sustainable materials industry.
Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award in 2015 and the Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award in 2016. Dr. Hijosa regularly speaks at events, including TEDx talks, to share her insights on sustainability and the importance of ethical innovation in design. She believes that design has the power to connect people, the environment, and the economy—creating new ideas and products with integrity.
“Design is not just about product.
Design is about responsibility.” – DR CARMEN HIJOSA
The Manufacturing Process
Piñatex® is a testament to the art of crafting with purpose. The process begins with the harvesting of pineapple leaves, which are then stripped to extract the fibers. These fibers are spun into a non-woven textile, which is then processed into a material that can be used to create a variety of products, from fashion accessories to upholstery. The process is designed to minimize waste, making Piñatex® an incredibly eco-friendly option for designers and manufacturers who want to create without compromising on environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
Piñatex® represents a new era in conscious crafting. From its humble beginnings in the Philippines to its global impact, this innovative material is not only a sustainable alternative to traditional leather but also a powerful example of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand. With a commitment to both people and the planet, Piñatex® is changing the way we think about materials, design, and our role in creating a more sustainable future.
