Cork, obtained from the outer sheath of the bark of the Cork Oak tree, is a humble gift from the nature with extraordinary properties and unparalleled sustainable features. It is a 100% natural resource that is completely biodegradable, renewable, and recyclable. Scientists and product developers all over the world are continuing to explore the endless possibilities of using this quintessential material in a myriad of applications. It’s new age multiple technical capabilities of being inherently water-resistant, lightweight, less abrasive, durable, elastic, fire-retardant and anti-microbial, makes it a one of the most unique natural materials available to mankind and a matchless alternative to non-biodegradable leather and fabrics.

The Cork Oak tree, a millenary tree, is native to Southwest Europe and Northwest Africa part of the world. These trees grow naturally in rain-fed forests and have a lifespan of 200-250 years. Cork is harvested every nine years without felling or harming the tree by extremely skilled workers and is one of the highest-paid agricultural jobs in the world. Harvesting this outer sheath helps the Cork Oak tree absorb five times more carbon dioxide during its regeneration process. These cork oak forests provide a source of livelihood to more than 100,000 people in those regions, thereby becoming an important pillar in the ecosystem for maintaining a social, economic and cultural balance.
 

Choosing Cork fabric contributes to:

  • Socio-economic well-being for the farmers and the workers
  • Increase in the carbon sinks for the environment
  • Protection against fire hazards and soil erosion in forests
  • Decrease in the usage of water and energy resources