The Hidden Impact of Materials – What Your Bag Is Really Made Of
In fashion, few words are used as often – and misunderstood as much – as “vegan.”
Many brands promote eco leather or sustainable PU, but behind those labels often hides one thing: plastic.
At Plant Inside, we asked ourselves early on:
What does “sustainable” really mean if the so-called vegan material is made from fossil fuels?
That question became the starting point of our journey to find better alternatives – materials that don’t just sound ethical, but truly are.
Greenwashing in Materials – When “Vegan” Isn’t Sustainable
Many so-called vegan leather products are made from PU (polyurethane) or PVC – both forms of plastic.
They contain no animal ingredients, but their environmental impact is heavy:
- not biodegradable,
- often treated with solvents,
- derived from petroleum.
What looks like a conscious choice is often just plastic with a new name.
We’ve experienced this ourselves: in the early days of Plant Inside, we received many samples labeled “eco leather” that were, in fact, 100% synthetic PU.
Why We Chose True Alternatives
We wanted materials that are vegan and responsible.
After months of research, testing, and collaboration with European producers, we found two that became the cornerstones of our collection: Viridis® and Washpapa.
Viridis® – Vegan Leather Made from Corn, Crafted in Italy
For our premium bags, we use Viridis®, a plant-based vegan leather produced in Italy.
Viridis® is partially made from corn waste and natural polyols, reducing the use of fossil-based components.
It’s durable, flexible, water-resistant, and feels remarkably natural.
Before introducing it into production, we tested it for months – durability, color stability, and texture.
The result: a material that looks elegant and performs sustainably.
Washpapa – The Paper That’s Stronger Than Plastic
Our Lunch Bags and Laptop Sleeves are made from Washpapa – a paper-based material made from cellulose fibers.
It’s plastic-free, durable, washable, and surprisingly stylish.
We discovered Washpapa while searching for a lightweight, vegan material that could replace plastic.
Its unique texture and resilience made it an easy choice – proof that paper can, indeed, be stronger than plastic.
How We Select Materials – The Plant Inside Test
Every new material we consider must pass our internal test:
- Is it plant-based or naturally derived?
- Is its production transparent and traceable?
- Is it durable enough to last for years?
Only then does it become part of our collection.
This approach keeps us honest – and helps prevent greenwashing from sneaking in.
The Invisible Side of Sustainability
A sustainable material is never just a fabric or a textile.
It’s the outcome of choices – about sourcing, energy, transparency, and respect for people and nature.
At Plant Inside, we believe that sustainability begins in the details – in the fibers, in the materials, and in the values behind them.
Conclusion – What Truly Matters
Not every vegan product is sustainable.
But every conscious material choice is a step in the right direction.
At Plant Inside, we work every day to find materials that unite ethics, durability, and design.
Viridis®, Washpapa, and our local production in Poland aren’t just components – they are part of our story of responsibility.