evidence: Even so, to satisfy a consumer base seeking more sustainable vegan leather options, a number of companies have started working with other, plant-based materials, including cork, pineapple, mushroom, corn, coconut and cactus, to produce versatile and eco-friendly textiles. [...] As an alternative to animal-derived leather, vegan leathers benefit both the planet and the animals by sidestepping the extensive natural resources required to farm animals, cutting water use and greenhouse gas emissions. Plus, vegan leathers are made without animal suffering, or slaughter. [...] Demand for vegan leather continues to rise — as does the push for more biodegradable and sustainable materials. As developers make better use of innovative and sustainable options, as well as technological advances in manufacturing and plant-based alternatives, the space will see a wider selection of plant-based leathers on the market. And as vegan leathers become more durable, the industry will continue to expand, with hopes of providing more versatile cruelty-free alternatives.