A matter of fruit

transforming juice press residues

The industrial processing of fruits and vegetables into juice generates a substantial byproduct that often goes unnoticed: pomace. At A Matter of Fruit, our focus is on pioneering processes that transform pomace into biodegradable films, providing sustainable alternatives to synthetics. This innovative material, with its variable thickness, falls somewhere in the spectrum between paper, plastic, and leather in terms of appearance and texture. It opens up possibilities across various applications, ranging from interior design and eco-friendly packaging to a sustainable alternative to leather. The beauty of these pomace films lies in their translucency. In combination with light they unfold their true aesthetic potential. Their ability to biodegrade after use, ensures a seamless integration to the natural cycle.

Funded & supported by

WeaveUp! Cork

From bark to skin

Cork originates from the bark of the cork oak tree. What makes this bark unique is its outer layer composed of suberised cells, resulting in a uniform, flexible, impermeable, and thermally insulating material. Harvesting cork does not cause harm to the tree. The cork oak serves as a carbon sink, and its effectiveness is enhanced by the tree’s utilisation for cork production. A challenge with textile cork lies in the adhesive and base materials used, which often lack a sustainable or plant-based origin. This project explores the possibilities of transforming cork into a useable yet nature-friendly material.