In a significant development, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Alter Wave Eco Innovations (AWEI) to transfer the technology for manufacturing vegan leather in India.
The partnership aims to develop sustainable biomaterial alternatives to animal leather, leveraging the abundant agricultural biomass available in Kerala, India. The technology, developed by a CSIR-NIIST team led by Dr. Anjineyulu Kothakota, uses plant-based materials such as pineapple leaves, banana stems, and rice straws to produce high-performing, biodegradable leather-like materials.
The collaboration will enable AWEI to tap into the vast agricultural biomass available in Kerala, generating an additional income stream for farmers. Kerala has approximately 20,000 hectares of pineapple farms, producing around 720,000 metric tons of farm waste each year. This biomass can be upcycled into sustainable leather materials, providing a lucrative alternative to traditional leather production.
AWEI aims to revolutionize the fashion and automotive industries with its plant-based materials. The company’s approach involves sourcing biomass from farmers and farming communities, upcycling it into non-toxic, durable materials that can be used for various applications.
The technology transfer deal between CSIR-NIIST and AWEI is expected to have a significant impact on the environment, reducing the reliance on animal leather and promoting sustainable practices in the industry.
