.
MATERGEA is a Colombian slow fashion brand that works closely with local artisans.
Our handbags are manufactured with plant-based and bio-based alternatives to leather made from cactus; fique fiber with coffee waste or algae with activated charcoal or wood waste from OffMatter.
For our handles we use materials such as tagua (considered the vegetable ivory) and coffee grains waste.
Nature is our inspiration and guiding principle for our designs. We create our products based on three pillars: respect to Mother Earth, sustainable fashion and
craftsmanship added value.
CACTUS FIBER ALTERNATIVE TO LEATHER
Manufacture with plant-based alternative to leather made from cactus, Bio PU (Cotton and recycled poly backing) .
Cruelty free, no toxic chemicals, Phthalates or PVC.
Sustainable processes
The handles are made from tagua that are considered the vegetable ivory. It is a 100% renewable material.
Desserto Cactus alternative to leather:
Biodiversity amelioration in the region.
Reverts Land Use Change (LUC).
Enrichment of soil micro-flora and micro-fauna through native and typical organic cactus afforestation.
Huge savings in water as no irrigation is applied.
Environmental preservation as no chemicals are used like herbicides or pesticides.
Cactus is left unharmed to enable repeated harvesting from the same plant.
Energy savings by drying the feed-stock in a solarium.
No cross-industry conflict as the byproduct is directed to the food industry in an increased value form which is more attractive, and stimulates the agricultural sector to plant more cactus.
Full vision and traceability of the farm to ensure sustainable social practices.
Technological enhancements at the fields.
OFFMATTER BIO-BASED MATERIALS
Reimagine materials through a Latin American ethos. Founded by David Cabra, he develops innovative bio-based materials crafted from algae blended with activated charcoal and wood waste.
Guided by the belief that biomaterials are not just products but holistic solutions, he creates matter that bridges functionality, aesthetics and environmental responsibility. His process is rooted in two essential principles: prioritizing natural ingredients and repurposing industrial products waste.
Deeply inspired by Colombia's extraordinary biodiversity, David's work embodies a continuous dialogue between science, design and nature.
Manufacture with Reconversión Circular alternative to leather. This Colombian startup focused on the circular economy, working with coffee and avocado waste.
They have developed a natural textile made from 100% plant fiber and an environmentally frinedly binder. It is biodegradable, with excellent resistance and durability.
This organic and sustainable material is a great alternative to animal leather and other synthetic materials that are not eco-friendly.
Sustainable processes:
Reconversion Circular alternative to leather is a bio-textile with a highly plant-based component. It is much more sustainable than animal leather, PU, and PVC.
The percentage of waste, such as avocado pits and skin, and coffee grains, varies depending on the presentation; it is biodegradable and can be reused.
