And it might be the most natural choice in your wardrobe. If you’ve ever stood in a store holding two handbags, one labelled “vegan leather,” the other simply “leather”, and wondered which was the more sustainable choice, you’re not alone. We’ve been led to believe that “vegan” equals plant-based, planet-friendly, and guilt-free. But here’s something many don’t realize: most “vegan leather” isn’t made from plants at all; it’s made from plastic. And not just any plastic, but PU (polyurethane), a petroleum-derived material with a short lifespan and a long environmental footprint. Now here’s the real news: Leather has just been officially recognized as a bio-based material under European Standard CEN/TC 411. In other words, leather—when made responsibly—is not only natural, it’s now formally classified as derived from renewable biological sources. A far cry from the synthetic alternatives that have been marketed as “better” for the planet. Leather has just been officially recognized as a bio-based material. So what does that mean for us as consumers? It means we need to start asking better questions. Not just “what is it called?” but “what is it made of?” and “how long will it last?” A well-made leather bag can last decades. It can be repaired, reconditioned, passed down. And with innovations like Zeology, leather can even be composted at the end of its life. That’s not just sustainability—it’s circularity in its most elegant form. By contrast, PU “leather” can crack within a season. It can’t be repaired. And when it’s done, it’s done… Destined for landfill, never to break down. This isn’t about guilt. It’s about empowerment. About knowing that the material you choose isn’t just stylish today. It’s aligned with a future we want to live in. So yes, leather just got a bio-based badge. But more importantly, it’s earned a place in the modern sustainable wardrobe. Not despite its origins, but because of them. Next time you’re choosing a bag, a jacket, or a pair of shoes, ask the quiet question behind the label: what’s the story of this material? You might be surprised where the real sustainability lies. Interesting for you Discover more news What happens to your vegan bag after you’re done with it? Danielle Koenen, Global Director Marketing & Communications at Royal Smit & Zoon, loves leather and bags. She noticed how often ‘vegan leather’ is used in fashion, and reveals what really happens to those bags once they’re out of style. Are car manufacturers going to be transparant about their interiors? As fans gather to witness the unveiling of new car models one question remains – will the car industry have a better understanding of the sustainability of leather versus materials derived from finite resources and be transparent in both its labelling of alternative materials and in its communication with customers? Why suede is ‘the material of 2025’ in fashion At Royal Smit & Zoon we like to be ahead of the curve. In our industry, as well as in fashion. We are thrilled to see that suede is widely acknowledged by fashion authorities to be ‘the material of 2025’. The refined material is as versatile as it is classy. More news Go to all news articles Discover Stay informed Receive the latest company news and industry updates Subscribe to our newsletter Share this:
