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Why the World Needs Alternatives to Animal Leather

  • Writer: Vaibhav Kushwaha
    Vaibhav Kushwaha
  • Aug 19
  • 2 min read
Close-up of mycelium leather texture showcasing sustainable biomaterial surface.
A close-up of mycelium-based leather texture—clean, soft, and cutting-edge.

Leather has always been seen as a symbol of luxury. But behind the shine lies a darker truth → animal leather comes at an enormous cost to our planet, our resources, and animal lives.



Polluted water near tannery highlighting the environmental damage of leather production.
A stark image of tannery waste or river pollution, illustrating environmental harm.

The Hidden Impact of Animal Leather


  • According to the UN FAO, the livestock sector contributes 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with leather being a byproduct of this system.

  • Leather tanning is one of the world’s most toxic industries, releasing harmful chemicals like chromium into water streams (World Bank).

  • Producing a single leather bag can consume thousands of litres of water, further straining already scarce freshwater resources (Ellen MacArthur Foundation).

  • Most importantly → over 1 billion animals are killed each year to feed the global leather industry (PETA).

Clearly, the “luxury” of leather comes at a heavy price.



Reishi mycelium-based biomaterial is being grown into leather-like sheets.
A tissue-like mycelium material (Reishi) developed as an eco-friendly replacement for leather.

Enter Mycelium: A Natural Alternative


What if luxury could exist without destruction? This is where mycelium leather comes in.

  • Mycelium, the root structure of fungi, grows on agricultural waste.

  • It requires less land, less water, and zero animal harm.

  • Unlike plastics or synthetic leather, it’s biodegradable and circular, aligning with the UN SDGs (12 – Responsible Consumption, 13 – Climate Action, 15 – Life on Land).

Research from pioneers like Ecovative Design shows how mycelium can be scaled into sheets, foams, and textiles that rival the look and feel of animal leather — without its devastating footprint.



Stylised mycelium textile panel representing sustainable circular-material solutions.
A stylised visual of mycelium material reminiscent of fine leather grain—great for showcasing texture or application potential.

MICO’s Role in This Change


At MICO, we believe luxury should not cost the Earth. We are researching and developing mycelium-based materials that offer durability, elegance, and sustainability.


Our mission → to renature the bond between humans and the environment while shaping a future where: ➡ Fashion, interiors, and lifestyle goods can thrive without animal harm. ➡ Innovation and nature work together, not against each other.


The world doesn’t just want alternatives to leather — it needs them. And at MICO, we’re making that future a reality.

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