PEELSPHERE is a 100% biodegradable material made from fruit waste + algae

PEELSPHERE, the new alternative to real and synthetic leather

berlin-based textile designer youyang song developed PEELSPHERE, a 100% biodegradable and circular material made from fruit waste and algae using advanced material engineering. designed as an alternative to real and synthetic leather, the new textile is both aesthetically pleasing and versatile — with a mission to inspire a sustainable, healthy, and balanced lifestyle through its quality and beauty. ‘I’m passionate about biomaterial research and sustainable development. my purpose [here] is to inspire and contribute to a better planet with new eco-friendly materials and sustainable strategies,’ shares song. 

all images courtesy of youyang song

a versatile, waterproof textile made from banana peels + algae

by observing and developing the renewability of plants, the designer focused on the potential of banana peels and algae to create PEELSPHERE. the resulting product is a malleable and waterproof textile that can be embroidered, woven, and knitted to create infinite patterns. moreover, depending on its use, it can harden to create a protective case, or turn soft to design fabrics. this bio-innovated material thus sits at the intersection of design, material science, and sustainability. 

PEELSPHERE has won the german sustainability award, all innovate award from oxford foundry, as well as k-generation award from kering group. song was also a nominee for the ein & zwanzig world’s design talents 2019 from the german design council and EU-funded Re-FREAM program. 

project info:

name: PEELSPHERE (view site here)

design: youyang song

bio-composition: banana peels, algae

features: 100% biodegradable, malleable, waterproof