Discover the story behind Ananas Anam’s groundbreaking sustainable textiles made from pineapple leaves and their impact on the fashion industry.
In a world where environmental consciousness is no longer just a trend but a necessity, the fashion industry is constantly seeking innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable future. Enter Ananas Anam, the trailblazing brand that has reimagined textile production with their revolutionary material made from waste pineapple leaves.
Dr. Carmen Hijosa
Ananas Anam’s journey began with the visionary Dr. Carmen Hijosa, a leather goods expert who became increasingly aware of the detrimental environmental impact of mass leather production and chemically treated alternatives. Determined to find a sustainable solution, Dr. Hijosa immersed herself in research, drawing inspiration from traditional weaving techniques and the abundance of natural resources, particularly plant fibers.
PIÑATEX
After years of development, Ananas Anam introduced PIÑATEX – a cutting-edge non-woven textile made from pineapple leaf fibers, which would pave the way for a new era of sustainable fashion. Each year, pineapple farmers generate an immense amount of waste in the form of discarded leaves. Ananas Anam saw an opportunity to repurpose this agricultural by-product, creating a low impact, high-quality material that reduces emissions and supports rural communities.
The process behind PIÑATEX is as fascinating as the material itself. Firstly, the leaves are collected after the pineapple harvest and the long fibers are carefully extracted. These fibers are then washed and naturally dried, resulting in a fluff-like material known as pineapple leaf fiber (PALF). Through a mechanical process, the PALF is blended with a corn-based polylactic acid (PLA) to create Piafelt, a non-woven mesh that forms the foundation of all Piatex collections.
To add versatility and style, Ananas Anam offers various finishing techniques. The Original Pluma and Mineral collections, used by renowned brands like Hugo Boss and H&M, feature Piafelt that has been colored using GOTS certified pigments and treated with a resin top coating for enhanced durability and water resistance. The Metallic collection, on the other hand, showcases a foil heat-pressed onto the Piafelt, while the PIÑATEX Performance range utilizes a high solid PU transfer coating.
The impact of Ananas Anam’s pioneering technology stretches far beyond fashion.
With every linear meter of PIÑATEX, the brand prevents the equivalent of 12kg of CO2 emissions, making it a compelling choice for environmentally conscious designers and consumers. The material’s versatile nature allows it to be used across various applications, from fashion accessories to upholstery. In fact, over a thousand brands worldwide have already embraced this innovative textile, including the Hilton Hotel Bankside.
By repurposing waste materials and supporting farming communities, Ananas Anam exemplifies a sustainable business model that prioritizes social and environmental responsibility. Through their remarkable efforts, they have not only made a positive impact but have also garnered recognition. Dr. Carmen Hijosa, the founder and Chief Creative & Innovation Officer of Ananas Anam, has been celebrated as a creative leader, receiving awards such as the Cartier Women’s Initiative Award for sustainable innovation in 2015 and the Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award for sustainable materials in 2016.
Ananas Anam’s commitment to research and innovation continues to drive their ongoing development of sustainable products, contributing to the transformation of the fashion industry. This groundbreaking brand is redefining the relationship between fashion, sustainability, and social impact, paving the way for a better future.
Credit: ananas-anam
Also Read: Navigating the Waters: Addressing Fashion’s Impact on Our Most Precious Resource
