Wood Leather - Rethinking Materials, Inspired by Nature
The Wood Leather Project is a collaborative initiative to develop a bio-based leather alternative—crafted not from animals or fossil fuels, but from sustainably sourced wood. This innovative material mimics the performance of traditional leather while supporting climate-conscious goals and advancing ethical design.
Why Wood Leather?
Sustainability. Craftsmanship. Innovation.
Wood leather is a BC-born innovation that blends the natural grain of wood with the flexibility and durability of leather. Using an eco-conscious process, it transforms wood into a high-performance textile—ideal for fashion, bags, footwear, sporting goods, and automotive interiors—all without animal hides or synthetic plastics.
Traditional leather production is highly resource-intensive and depends on animal agriculture, a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and water pollution. Equally, synthetic leathers are made from petroleum-based plastics that generate persistent pollution, contribute to microplastics in ecosystems, and do not biodegrade.
This project goes beyond materials. It represents a shared vision—bringing together artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and changemakers to advance sustainable alternatives that align with both design excellence and environmental responsibility.
Project Goals
- Develop a Bio-Based Leather Alternative from Wood
We are engineering a next-generation material that replicates leather’s durability and flexibility, using wood from responsibly managed forests. - Promote Ethical and Eco-Friendly Innovation
The wood leather material reduces reliance on animal-derived and petroleum-based products, aligning with circular economy principles and low-carbon goals. - Foster Collaboration Across Sectors
With support from UBC researchers and designers through the BioProducts Institute’s Accelerated Technology Readiness Program and public funding, we are creating a bridge between art, science, and commerce to bring this material to market.
Experience It at Osaka Expo 2025
Come see the future of materials at the Canadian Pavilion during the 2025 Osaka Expo from June 2 – 4, 2025! Get hands-on with our wood leather prototype and discover how nature, science, and design converge to create a more sustainable world.
Who's Behind This Project?
This collaboration is led by the UBC BioProducts Institute and supported by a strong network of research institutions, government agencies, and industry partners, including:
- Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
- BC Ministry of Forests
- BC Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport (TACS)
- BC Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation (JEDI)
Get Involved
Interested in the project? As we move toward pilot-scale production and explore new applications, we're inviting fresh ideas and collaboration opportunities. To learn more or connect with our team, contact us at contact.bpi@ubc.ca.
