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?
Innovation. Craftsmanship. Sustainability.
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 material—ideal for wallets, hand bags, footwear accents, and fashion accessories —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 demonstrate 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 ATR Launch Program, we are creating a bridge between art, science, and commerce to showcase this unique material.
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 collaborators, 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)
Wood Leather Showcased at Osaka Expo 2025 With Premier Eby
UBC's Bioproducts Institute joined Premier David Eby on his Asia trade mission to present their wood leather innovation at the 2025 Osaka Expo. Dr. Gail Murphy and designer Ayako Takagi showcased an early prototype soccer ball at the Canada Pavilion, engaging international audiences and highlighting B.C.'s leadership in sustainable materials. Click to read the full story.
Get Involved
Interested in the project? As we move toward optimizing 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.
