According to its manufacturers, the textile product “Piel de Café” transforms coffee waste into vegan, textile-based material and at the same time promotes social empowerment in Colombia.
The project is the result of a collaboration between textile company Nuvant, the social initiative BioHunters, and the women’s network Club Emperatriz in Pitalito. Many of the women involved are over the age of 40 and single mothers. By taking on key roles in the production process, they gain access to new professional and economic opportunities.
“We are turning residues from Colombia’s finest coffees into coated textiles with highly promising material properties.”
The foundation of “Piel de Café” consists of around 15 tonnes of coffee husks, previously considered waste. These husks now serve as the basis for a bio-based, coated textile suitable for applications such as furniture, automotive interiors, and fashion. According to the manufacturers, the material contains 10% coffee husks, complemented by other bio-based and recycled components.
Restrepo also highlights the project's social impact: “In the initial phase, we are increasing the participating women’s income by 15 to 20 percent. This creates long-term stability – for the community, the environment, and the textile industry.”
In addition to material innovation, the project provides education. Participants receive training in by-product utilization, financial literacy, and entrepreneurship. In the long term, the program aims to reach around 100 women in southern Huila.
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