Earth Fabrics launches CACT, vegan leather made from cactus
Sustainable fabric manufacturing startup Earth Fabrics has officially launched CACT, a 100% animal-free vegan leather, introducing its first product line, CACT-70. This product is made using the stems of cacti native to Jeju Island and boasts significantly lower carbon emissions compared to conventional synthetic and animal leather. Recently, there has been criticism that vegan leather is merely a rebranding of conventional synthetic leather for marketing purposes. While vegan leather carries a positive meaning by excluding animal-derived ingredients, many products still rely on petroleum-based materials, which have a high environmental cost. In contrast, CACT-70 by Earth Fabrics is gaining attention as a truly sustainable vegan alternative, utilizing natural cactus materials to reduce environmental impact. Earth Fabrics’ latest cactus leather line, CACT-70, carries a powerful environmental message in its name. Inspired by the sobering reality that 70 species are lost to extinction daily, the product highlights the urgent need for biodiversity conservation. It also reflects warnings that 25% of all species could face extinction by 2050 if current trends continue. The CACT-70 line is available in 10 colors, each named after endangered species, such as ‘Moon Bear Black,’ ‘Marten Beige,’ and ‘Pere David’s Deer Brown.’ By incorporating these names, the brand aims to create a direct connection between consumers and pressing environmental issues, encouraging informed and meaningful choices. Earth Fabrics’ CACT replaces petroleum-based compounds typically found in synthetic leather with cactus and plant-based ingredients. This change significantly reduces carbon emissions during production. While traditional animal leather production emits around 30 kgCO2eq per yard, CACT emits just 3 kgCO2eq, achieving a 90% reduction in carbon emissions. According to Ye Hoon Shin, CEO of Earth Fabrics, “Using one yard of CACT is equivalent to planting three trees in terms of carbon reduction.” The CACT-70 line balances sustainability and quality, crafted in collaboration with artisans with over 40 years of experience. It is produced by manufacturers certified by globally recognized standards, including Gold certification from the Leather Working Group (LWG) and approval from the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals Foundation (ZDHC). Additionally, it incorporates eco-friendly materials certified by the USDA (100% bio-based) and Europe’s Vincotte OK (highest bio-based rating). The product has passed rigorous safety standards, including Korea’s KC safety standards for textile and leather products, with no detected harmful substances. It also demonstrated exceptional durability by withstanding over 50,000 abrasion tests. Furthermore, it accommodates advanced craftsmanship techniques, such as edge coating, leather skiving, and heat embossing, traditionally used only for animal leather. Under the slogan “We Love Earth”, Earth Fabrics is committed to continuously developing innovative products that promote environmental protection. 최지원 기자fabrics leather earth fabrics animal leather by earth
