Stella McCartney has revolutionized the fashion industry with the release of the world’s first luxury handbags made from a vegan and plastic-free leather alternative called Mirum. These new bags, which are part of the Falabella and Frayme collections, are not only environmentally friendly but also fully recyclable and circular, making them a groundbreaking development in sustainable fashion.
Mirum is derived from plant-based, all-natural ingredients and is produced through a three-stage process that utilizes bioneutral and certified bio-based ingredients like natural rubber, natural fibers, plant-based oil, and pigments such as biochar and rust. Unlike traditional leather alternatives, Mirum does not contain any plastics and does not require the use of tanning or additional water inputs, significantly reducing the creation of wastewater.
One of the most significant advantages of Mirum is its remarkably lower carbon footprint compared to conventional animal and synthetic leather options. According to a Life Cycle Assessment study commissioned by Natural Fiber Welding, the company behind Mirum, the production of Mirum only results in 0.8-2.1 CO2e per square meter, while petroleum-based leather alternatives can generate between 7-15.8 kg CO2e.
In addition to its sustainability, Mirum is also highly functional. It is described as supple, durable, easily cleaned, and fully water-resistant, showcasing that sustainable materials can possess the same level of desirability and durability as traditional options in the fashion industry.
Stella McCartney expressed her excitement about the launch, describing it as a celebration of the bond between humans and animals, as well as a call-to-action for the protection of our planet. McCartney has long envisioned a plant-based alternative to leather that does not harm animals and can be easily returned to nature without creating waste. With Mirum, her dream has become a reality, and she believes it represents the future of fashion.
The introduction of Mirum bags also sheds light on the detrimental effects of conventional leather production. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reported that 1.4 billion animal hides and skins were utilized in global leather production in 2020. The tanning processes involved in leather production often involve the use of toxic chemicals and gases, including chromium IV, which not only harm water systems but also pose health risks to workers. Additionally, the cattle farming industry, responsible for leather and beef production, contributes to deforestation in the Amazon, leading to the destruction of crucial carbon sinks and biodiversity loss.
Stella McCartney’s use of Mirum in her luxury handbags sets a new standard for sustainable fashion. It serves as proof that it is possible to create high-quality and desirable products without causing harm to animals or the environment. As more fashion brands and designers adopt this approach, we can anticipate a positive shift towards a more sustainable and compassionate industry. Truly, the future of fashion has arrived.
Useful links:
1. Stella McCartney Sustainability
2. Mirum by Natural Fiber Welding
