'Leather' made of cactus: inspiration and creativity for sustainability

'Leather' made of cactus: inspiration and creativity for sustainability

all pics by Desserto

In Smart Room Barcelona we love cacti. We actually have a couple of them in our headquarters. This innovation generated by a couple of Mexican young entrepreneurs impressed us a lot.

Desserto is a plant-based material which resembles leather.  It is partially biodegradable, since it comes from Mexican cacti (‘nopal’). It is a perfect choice for avoiding animal skin in the fashion industry. This new material lasts up to 10 years, it is flexible, durable and does not stain.

New material coming from 'nopal' cactus in Mexico

Adrián López Velarde and Marte Cázarez formerly worked in the fashion and automotive industry. After working together in their new project, these two Mexican businessmen have developed a fascinating material which complies with high environmental standards. Their innovation provides a great quality due to its long endurance. 

Catalogue with finishings and colours

Deserto has been called “vegan leather”. It aims to offer a sustainable, cruel-free, non toxic alternative to animal leather and PVC faux-leather.  Nopal plants need very scarce water to grow, and they are virtually everywhere in Mexico. 

Innovation for sustainability

We love innovation and new ways of doing old things.  These are powerful ideas that keep Smart Room Barcelona inspired !

Date: 2023-09-13