The objective of a Swiss NGO is to encourage manufacturers to create new products using climate-neutral and eco-friendly materials, offering consumers the same items they love but made from sustainable, non-animal alternatives, thereby fostering a shift from routine, unconscious consumption to more mindful, ethical consumer behaviour.

The Swiss organisation is looking for high-quality leather alternatives made from non-food products, focusing on both plant-based sources and other materials that are not derived from animal exploitation. The production process of the leather alternatives should prioritize climate neutrality and ecological balance, with a strong emphasis on social responsibility throughout the supply chain. The materials has to be produced mainly in Europe, although sourcing may extend beyond Europe when necessary to ensure the best ecological and climatic outcomes.

These leather alternatives should be designed to match the durability, texture, and aesthetic qualities of traditional animal leathers. They should be suitable for a wide range of products, including but not limited to:

- Fashion items (jackets, shoes, belts, and handbags)
- Accessories (wallets, watch straps, and gloves)
- Office supplies (notebook covers, desk pads, and briefcases)
- Travel goods (luggage, passport holders, and travel bags)
- Home furnishings (upholstery, cushions, and curtains)
- Sporting goods (saddles, boxing gloves, and protective gear)

Quality Criteria:
- If the material is composite, it needs to be a single, continuous material (no layers)
- It needs to be as durable as animal leather (should develop a patina, not scratches, and should not peel).
- It needs to be as strong as animal leather (no deformation with use).
- The material needs to improve with time.

The NGO seeks organisations – laboratories and companies - active in the development of sustainable materials and ecological manufacturing processes able to provide new generation of vegan leather alternatives ready to be tested by producers in the leather industry. They should also be open to address technical improvements.

The Swiss NGO is also interested to discuss the development of promising materials if addressing the durability and aesthetic issues of today’s vegan leather. It can offer its support to identify funding sources.


The final aim is to offer ecological and climate-neutral materials to buyers via the e-platform developed by the Swiss NGO in order to supply 30’000 people interested in eco-responsible and/or short-circuit products or materials.
Advantages and innovation
Technical Specification or Expertise Sought
- Expertise in developing and processing sustainable materials
- Knowledge in producing high-quality, durable alternatives to traditional leather, including both plant-based and other non-animal-based materials suitable for various applications across fashion, accessories, office supplies, travel goods, home furnishings, and sporting goods
- Experience in optimizing material sourcing and manufacturing processes for ecological and climatic efficiency
- Familiarity with the European manufacturing sector and its sustainability practices