In a world where sustainable living is gaining importance, innovative ideas are constantly emerging. One such revolutionary concept is the creation of eco-friendly pleather, a leather alternative made from coconut water. Malai, a Kerala-based company, is at the forefront of this eco-friendly movement. Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Malai and its mission to provide sustainable fashion choices.
The Birth of Malai
Malai, a word that means “cream” in Hindi and is also used to describe the soft, milky flesh of a fresh coconut, was founded in 2018 by Zuzana Gombosova, a material researcher and fashion designer, along with CS Susmith, a product designer from Kerala. The idea behind Malai was to create a vegan alternative to leather that is both eco-friendly and ethical.
The Sustainable Process
The primary raw material for Malai’s pleather is bacterial cellulose extracted from the water of mature coconuts. This cellulose, known as Nata de Coco, is widely used in the food industry in the Philippines. Malai collaborates with farmers and processing units in Kerala to repurpose the coconut water they don’t use. The water is fermented to create cellulose, which is then combined with fibers from hemp, sisal, and banana stems. The result is a textured, water-resistant pleather material.
Ethical and Eco-Friendly Fashion
What sets Malai apart is its commitment to cruelty-free, sustainable fashion. The pleather created by Malai is not only biodegradable but also compostable. It looks and feels like leather but without the environmental impact and cruelty associated with traditional leather production.
The Malai Collection
Malai now offers a range of bags and shoes made from their sustainable material. These products are available on their website, with prices ranging from Rs 1,800 to Rs 9,500. Additionally, Malai supplies its eco-friendly pleather to brands like Riti in India, Ethical Living in the UK, and Lucky Nelly in Germany.
Recognitions and a Bright Future
Malai’s innovative approach to sustainable fashion has garnered attention and accolades. In February, the brand won the Circular Design sustainability in fashion challenge during Lakme Fashion Week. With potential applications in furnishing and interior surfaces, the company’s vision for eco-friendly materials extends beyond fashion.
Conclusion
Malai is an exemplary model of how sustainable and ethical choices can be integrated into the fashion industry. Their eco-friendly pleather, derived from coconut water, is not just a material but a symbol of a future where fashion and sustainability coexist. As we embrace the principles of slow living and sustainable consumption, companies like Malai pave the way for a more conscientious and eco-friendly world.
With a commitment to cruelty-free fashion and an emphasis on responsible production, Malai’s success is a beacon of hope for the fashion, furniture, and footwear industries, demonstrating that we can indeed make choices that benefit both consumers and the environment.
