ISA TanTec announced the launch of COSM (Creation of Sustainable Materials) Division, which specializes in the development and production of sustainable products alongside its leather production.

The first two materials to launch are HyphaLite (available Q121) and VeraLite (available Q221).

“For more than two years, we have been investigating and researching with scientists to build these new sustainable materials along with our unique ISA leathers,” said Thomas Schneider, Executive Chairman of the ISA TanTec Group.

All COSM products are made by following ISA TanTec’s LITE manufacturing processes — minimizing carbon footprint, water and chemical consumption. The HyphaLite and VeraLite are made from mushroom, mycelium and other plant-based materials that are biodegradable. Following the principle of the circular economy, waste that occurs during the production of the materials, including, but not limited to cutting waste, will be integrated back into the process.

“Mushrooms are an amazing, fast renewable natural organism. Due to its rapid growth, its feedstock availability is almost unlimited,” said Dr. Reiner Hengstmann, Vice President, Additional Materials of the ISA TanTec Group.

“In unprecedented times, we are paying even more attention and dedicating additional resources to innovation, creating a better future,” said Uwe Hutzler, chief executive officer of the ISA TanTec Group.