Cork leather is made from natural cork which is a sustainable and planet friendly material. Cork leather is soft, flexible and light. Its elasticity means that it retains its shape and its honeycomb cell structure make it water resistant, flame resistant and hypoallergenic. It does not absorb dust and can be wiped clean with soap and water.
Man has been harvesting cork for over 5000 years. Cork is the bark of the Cork Oak and can be harvested every nine years. The harvesting of the cork does not hurt the Cork Oak. To the contrary, it actually extends the life of the tree and increases its absorption of CO2. Initially used to produce fishing gear, cork quickly found a valuable use as a stopper for bottles and flasks. Modern applications include the production of "Cork Leather".
Cork Leather can be used in a variety of applications, including upholstery, accessories, home goods, and shoes. Really any application that values the intrinsic durability, stain resistance, character, and, above all, sustainability that cork leather provides.
The cork tree is a truly remarkable tribute to the wonder that is our world. Due to its continuous self-regenerative properties and longevity,the cultivation and harvesting of cork is sustainable and does not compromise the environment that surrounds it.
Cork is the outer layer of the Cork Oak and is harvested without causing harm to the tree. To the contrary, the harvesting of cork on a regular multi-year cycle enhances the life and health of the tree. Nothing is wasted when it comes to the cork tree: it’s fruit, leaves, and natural acids, all play a part in guaranteeing a sustainable eco system for the surrounding areas..
Cork Leather is a relatively new material. With its permanent, and robust, R&D efforts, PortugaliaCork has broadly expanded the range of possible applications where cork leather can provide a durable, sustainable and natural alternative to leathers. Furniture is a natural use for cork leather where its natural character and durability complement one another for upholstery and case good applications. Cork leather has been used for years in fashion and accessories and there is a vast array of new uses emerging from home goods for the table to cases for the latest phones.