A plant-based, plastic-free leather alternative made from pineapple leaf fibers is gaining attention for its practical uses. This innovative material, developed by Associate Professor Taweechai Amornsakchai and his team at Mahidol University in Thailand, is seen as a promising solution to the environmental issues linked with traditional leather.

Following this breakthrough, the material has been further improved for commercial purposes by Evergen Technologies under the brand name PiLeatha. The company focuses on converting agricultural by-products into sustainable, high-value materials.

One notable example of PiLeatha in action is its use in restoring vintage books. Using a sample of the soft, leather-like version provided by Dr. Taweechai, a 1967 edition of The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn was restored. The material, which includes a thin red rubber coating, has a smooth texture and a slightly grippy feel, closely resembling genuine leather. It’s lightweight, strong, and holds up well unless cut with a sharp tool.

Encouraged by these results, PiLeatha was also tested on a daily-use moleskin notebook. This time, a variant with a full-grain leather-like texture was used. The outcome was a stylish, professional appearance combined with a comfortable grip, making it perfect for frequent handling. The material’s strength and resistance to wear help extend the life of everyday items, encouraging more mindful, long-term use.