Vaidehi Bhargava
Adrián López Velarde and Marte Cázarez, two innovative entrepreneurs from Mexico, have developed Desserto, a vegan leather made from Nopal cactus. Their product is a sustainable alternative to traditional leather, combining durability, flexibility, and environmental consciousness.
How Desserto is Made?
The cactus is grown organically in Zacatecas, Mexico, without irrigation, relying solely on rainwater. The process begins with harvesting mature cactus leaves, which are sun-dried for three days to achieve optimal moisture levels. These leaves are then processed into a bio-based material using a patented formula. The plants remain undamaged, allowing repeat harvesting every 6–8 months, which promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
Environmental Benefits
Desserto eliminates the need for toxic chemicals, phthalates, and PVC commonly used in synthetic leathers. It is partially biodegradable and offers a lifespan of up to 10 years. Additionally, cactus plantations act as carbon sinks; for example, Desserto’s farm absorbs 8,100 tons of CO2 annually while generating only 15.3 tons.
The production of Desserto reduces water consumption significantly compared to animal leather, which requires vast amounts of water. By choosing cactus leather, industries like fashion and automotive can lower their water usage and plastic waste by up to 42%.
Applications and Global Impact
Desserto is widely used across industries, including fashion, automotive, and interior design. Brands like Adidas, H&M, BMW, and Karl Lagerfeld have incorporated it into their products. Beyond leather, Desserto’s bio-based materials are being expanded into yarns and other applications.
Adrián and Marte’s innovation highlights the potential of sustainable materials in combating environmental challenges like deforestation, pollution, and excessive resource consumption. Their work exemplifies how eco-conscious entrepreneurship can drive global change.