This collaboration aims to create an eco-friendly alternative to animal leather using plant sources like pineapple leaves, banana stems, and rice straws, without relying on plastic as a core material.
The technology developed by CSIR-NIIST allows for the conversion of agricultural waste from Kerala's pineapple farms, which is approximately 720,000 million tonnes, into sustainable biomaterials. This initiative not only provides an environmentally friendly product but also offers farmers an additional income stream by upcycling these resources.
It's a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing and could have a positive impact on both the environment and the local economy. The technology transfer agreement was signed at the NIIST campus in Thiruvananthapuram, marking it as the fifth such technology transfer from CSIR-NIIST and the first of its kind in Kerala.
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The Vegan Leather Technology of CSIR-NIIST is easily biodegradable, has good water retention and heat resistant capacities, Good strength, stiffness and microwave friendly.
AWEI is set to utilize the technology developed by CSIR-NIIST to manufacture eco-friendly replacements for animal leather using plant sources like pineapple leaves, banana stems, and rice straws. This innovative approach does not rely on plastic as a core ingredient, making it a sustainable option in the fashion and automotive industries
Incorporated in this year, the young start-up company AWEI is located in Malayattoor, in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, which is known for its extensive pineapple farms. These farms produce a significant amount of agricultural waste, estimated at 720,000 million tonnes, which can now be upcycled into non-toxic, durable, leather-like materials.
AWEI's mission aligns with sustainable manufacturing practices, focusing on plant-based, biodegradable, high-performing materials. By tapping into nature's abundant agricultural biomass, AWEI not only contributes to environmental conservation but also provides local farmers with an additional income stream.
The technology transfer agreement was signed at the NIIST campus in Thiruvananthapuram, with the presence of officials including C Anandharamakrishnan, Director of CSIR-NIIST, and Jeswin George. The initiative by AWEI and CSIR-NIIST is a step towards remaking materials with a focus on sustainability and performance.
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