Guest commentary: Every step counts to drive down greenhouse gas emissions with green materials
Advances in materials science, chemical synthesis and biomanufacturing have given rise to next-generation materials — innovative textiles formed from a wide range of sources, from synthetic proteins to spiderlike silks. The most successful of these materials achieve performance parity (or superiority) with conventional materials while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Though there are many applications for novel textiles in automotive design, one noteworthy opportunity for decarbonization lies in alternatives to leather. Historically, leather manufacturing has been a carbon-intensive process and is associated with complex geopolitical and ecological controversy. However, leather is also an ancient material crafted by artisans for millennia. Its resilience, water resistance, and blemished character have made it a high-performing status symbol, representing quality and luxury.
A commercially viable alternative to leather will thus have to be more than just ecologically friendly. It will have to inspire reverence among consumers as a durable material worth showing off.
Early attempts to manufacture leather alternatives struggled to survive in the competitive automotive marketplace, as synthetic materials typically lacked the authentic feel and craftsmanship of leather.
In contrast, next-generation materials overcome many of these limitations.
For example, advances in material manufacturing have given rise to nonwoven leather alternatives that display superior material qualities while retaining the charm of traditional craftsmanship. Those developed with drop-in capabilities — meaning the material can be produced with leather manufacturing workflows — enable tanneries to mold the novel material using traditional methods. The end result is a product that closely resembles leather in look and feel, while displaying superior durability, lighter overall weight and a reduced environmental footprint.
Such a material can benefit the automotive industry. Lightweight alternatives can reduce vehicle weight, improving fuel or battery efficiency. Drop-in technology shortens supply chains, reducing the greenhouse gas emissions associated with transporting hides. Circular materials also minimize the need for virgin material production and reduce waste, further curbing emissions. These benefits mean that vehicles made with next-generation materials are likely to have a holistically reduced emission profile.
