A team of Filipino designers and entrepreneurs has launched a new sustainable material made from algae and banana waste, offering an alternative to traditional animal leather.
The startup, Konstratá, was formed through a collaboration between Tal de Guzman, founder of fashion brand Risqué Designs and educator at De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde, and her former students Micca Amor and Vinz Mamalateo.
Amor leads Love, Amor Studios, and works with algae-based bioplastics, while Mamalateo is behind the banana-leather venture Philip-Anaban.
Initially serving as a mentor, de Guzman later joined forces with the duo to develop the bio-based material. The team now sources banana fibers and peel waste from Villa Socorro Farm, a local enterprise that promotes sustainable agriculture.
Konstratá, which means “with layers,” markets its product as a layered, nature-derived alternative to leather. Its tagline, “Fibers Don’t Hide,” reflects the group’s aim to embrace the raw qualities of plant-based fibers instead of replicating animal hide.
“We believe plant-based materials don’t just improve our lifestyle but also how we live,” said de Guzman.
The material is designed for versatility and can be used across industries, including fashion, furniture, and packaging. The group is targeting both artists and manufacturers looking to reduce environmental impact through ethical sourcing and production.
Konstratá is also expanding its reach through partnerships with schools, NGOs, and communities to promote sustainable practices and provide livelihoods through waste-to-resource initiatives.
The project is currently raising funds through The Spark Project, a local crowdfunding platform in collaboration with the Benilde Hub of Innovation for Inclusion.
“Our backers are not just supporters,” said Mamalateo. “They’re part of the movement to build a greener, more ethical world.”
