What is actually Vegan - Plant based Leather or PU Leather?
Lately every conversation I have had about Vegan Leather has left people in a lot of confusion and doubt as to what is actually vegan leather? Is PU and PVC also Vegan? Is only plant based considered vegan? Plant-based vegan leather and PU leather are both popular alternatives to animal leather, but they differ significantly in their composition and sustainability. Plant-based leathers are made using materials such as cactus, coconut, apple waste, pineapple fibres, corn, or mushroom, often blended with bio-based resins. PU leather, on the other hand, is created using polyurethane, a man-made polymer coated onto a fabric base. While both fall under the “vegan leather” umbrella, their origins set them apart in terms of their feel, performance, and environmental impact.
In terms of durability, PU leather has traditionally been the stronger material because of its plastic-based structure and it lasts longer than Plant based that is why Leather NO Leather prefers using PU over 100% plant based. It handles daily wear, water, and temperature changes better, making it long-lasting for travel bags, footwear, and upholstery and more similar products. Plant-based leathers offer moderate durability, they’re sturdy but have a softer, more natural texture. Some newer plant-based materials, like cactus leather or mycelium (mushroom) leather, are quickly approaching PU in durability, but they are still not as widely used or mass-produced which makes it difficult for businesses.
When we look at environmental impact, plant-based vegan leather generally stands out because it uses agricultural waste or naturally renewable resources, it requires less water, fewer chemicals, and produces a much smaller carbon footprint making it very sustainable. Some varieties are partially biodegradable as well, depending on the blend. Their production supports circularity by converting waste like discarded fruit peels or crop leftovers into something useful and long-lasting.
PU leather, although synthetic, is still a far better environmental choice than traditional leather sourced from animals. It eliminates the need for livestock farming—one of the world’s biggest contributors to carbon emissions, water consumption, and deforestation. PU production also avoids the toxic chrome tanning process used in animal leather, reducing chemical pollution. While PU is not biodegradable, it is still considered more planet-friendly when compared directly to animal leather. That is why LNL has made a decision to provide leather looking luxury goods without harming the animals.
Both materials play an important role in reducing reliance on animal-derived leather. Plant-based leathers push innovation toward natural, renewable, low-impact materials, while PU leather offers durability and affordability without harming animals. Together, they give consumers and brands the ability to choose kinder, more conscious options that minimize environmental damage while still delivering beautiful, functional products. Therefore whichever you us, always opt for Vegan Leather bags, upholstery and footwear rather than harming an animal, harming the planet. Choose kindness, Choose Vegan