The current environmental situation on our planet shows that a moderate use of resources is necessary. Petroleum-based resources are used in the production of products and luxury goods, and the recycling of products at the end of their life cycle is not environmentally friendly, and the depletion of resources leads to these problems. Strengthening and using the sense of responsibility for the future can be an effective tool to promote environmental awareness and intergenerational environmental behavior. In this case, many new ideas and business models are emerging that use bio-based sustainable materials for various products. A stronger sense of responsibility for the future can be an effective tool for promoting environmental awareness and intergenerational action. In this case, many new companies using bio-based materials for various products are emerging. In fact, it has become a kind of fashion trend to live vegan or wear vegan goods and clothes. In this case, a vegan alternative to leather has been sought, as many people would like to avoid using animal leather of any kind in the future. Various studies showed that vegan leather from cacti or mushrooms is particularly suitable, as it is very close to real leather and covers its properties. Polyurethane (PU) leather made from plastic or animal leather is no longer necessary. The fashion industry causes massive negative impacts on the environment. It is the second largest polluter in the world, of which leather is a major contributor. There are more than 5000 species of cacti, with most species found in the Americas. They are widely distributed in the arid regions of Mexico (e.g., Chihuahuan Desert), Brazil (e.g., Caatinga region), and Argentina (e.g., Jujuy Province). In general, there are 3 different types of cactus that can be processed into cactus leather - Nopal cactus, Sahuaro cactus and Bisnaga cactus. Cactus leather has many positive characteristics that may surprise the reader, because the material quality is very close to that of real leather. For example, some positive environmental aspects play a big role here. When the cactus is harvested, the actual plant/root is not damaged, so it can continue to grow and continue to process carbon dioxide. In addition, cactus leather is plastic-free and the processing does not harm the environment. In addition, cacti do not need so much water, there is no need to water. . Cactus leather is a very good alternative product because it covers the functions of animal leather in most parts. It remains to be seen if it can completely replace real leather. With further and improved research in the field of cactus leather, it could well be possible to do away with animal leather altogether soon and vegan alternatives will be available.
This paper discusses sustainable materials based on cactus species that can replace leather products, for example, and explores the development of bio-based textiles in the near future.