Cultivating Sustainability: Malai, The Eco-Friendly Alternative To Animal Leather From Coconut Water

In the era of sustainability, where eco-friendly alternatives are gaining prominence, Zuzana Gombosoava, a Slovakian material researcher and fashion designer based in Kerala, has introduced “Malai.” This innovative material serves as a substitute for animal leather and is crafted through the fermentation of underutilised water from mature coconuts and various plant materials.

Malai Production Process:

Zuzana, who has resided in Kerala for five years, established the startup Malai Biomaterials Design Pvt Ltd. Collaborating with coconut processing units in South India, the startup repurposes waste coconut water for cellulose production. Approximately 4,000 liters of water daily yield 150-170 kg (dry weight) of cellulose, refined to create the final Malai material. Utilising Nata De Coco, a fermented product from waste coconut water, banana stem fibres, hemp, and sisal, Malai emerges as a flexible, durable, water-resistant, organic, and sustainable material.

Color and Form:

Malai is available in various colours achieved through mordant-free natural dyes. The material is produced in sheet form, offering versatility in design and application.

Collaborative Initiatives:

Zuzana initiated the production of Malai as a research project in collaboration with Susmith Suseelan, a product designer from Kerala. They partnered with coconut processing units, initially in Karnataka and later shifting to Kerala in 2018 due to favourable climatic conditions conducive to the fermentation process.

Sustainable Fashion Market:

With the finalised product in hand, Malai Biomaterials Design is targeting the sustainable fashion market. Producing around 200 sq m of raw materials monthly, the cost ranges between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000 per sq m. The startup is currently collaborating with brands and companies specialising in alternative materials, vegan products, and sustainable fashion, both in India and internationally. Malai has been supplied to fashion startups focusing on sustainability and manufacturers of leather accessories.

Funding and Recognition:

To support the startup, Zuzana has conducted two crowdfunding campaigns in Europe and India, in addition to receiving grants and winning competitions. The innovative approach of using waste coconut water to create a sustainable alternative to animal leather showcases the potential for environmentally friendly practices in the fashion industry.

Targeting the sustainable fashion market, Malai Biomaterials Design produces 200 sq m of raw materials monthly, catering to brands and companies focusing on alternative materials and vegan products. The startup”s collaborations extend to fashion startups committed to sustainability and manufacturers of leather accessories.

Zuzana”s innovative approach not only addresses environmental concerns in the fashion industry but also highlights the potential for transforming waste into valuable, sustainable resources. The success of Malai showcases the growing interest and market for eco-friendly alternatives, setting a precedent for a more conscientious and environmentally responsible future in fashion.