Environment and Sustainability

Thanks to the high content of recycled cork and plant-based polymers derived from non-food crops, we have developed the first cork-based zero-mile materials with a controlled supply chain, entirely Made in Italy.

Our patented, efficient, and low-impact process follows nature’s rhythm and reduces CO₂ emissions throughout the entire production cycle. The bio-based components we use integrate into the natural carbon cycle, while the adoption of second-generation biomass enables us to offer sustainable, high-performance solutions, that are visually distinctive and versatile-perfectly suited to the needs of various industrial sectors.

An outstanding biomass

The cork material is at the heart of our innovation: a biomass that requires no additional transformation to be used in production processes, making it naturally carbon-neutral .

In addition to its natural origin, cork offers unique physical and mechanical properties:

Extreme lightness
Impermeability to liquids and gases
High-performance thermal and acoustic insulation
Antistatic and chemically inert behavior, compatible with other materials
Natural resistance to degradation, thanks to tannins and protective waxes

The raw material comes from forests of non-felled cork oak trees, part of mixed and biodiverse ecosystems. These naturally self-regenerating trees actively contribute to soil health and CO₂ absorption. During the bark regrowth process – approximately every 9 years – they can multiply their carbon capture capacity by up to 5 times.

High-performance bio-based binders

We use plant-based resins derived from non-food crops and traceable, non-GMO plant biomass. These binders integrate into the biological carbon cycle, drastically reducing environmental impact compared to fossil-based resins.

Thanks to cork’s honeycomb structure-with a density comparable to that of fresh snow—it is possible to use a smaller amount of resin while still maintaining high mechanical and structural performance. The result is a green, efficient materialaligned with a forward-thinking vision of circular economy.

LEBIU, our cruelty-free products, by choice

At LEBIU, respect for life is a core value. That’s why our materials are completely cruelty free, developed without the use of any animal-derived components.

We believe that innovation should never compromise ethics, theenvironment or sustainability. Our technologies allow us to create high-performance, plant-based products with refined aesthetics-designed to replace leather and other animal-derived materials without sacrificing quality.

We believe that innovation should never compromise ethics, the environment or sustainability. Our technologies allow us to create high-performance, plant-based products with refined aesthetics-designed to replace leather and other animal-derived materials without sacrificing quality.

LEBIU: expertise in certifications

LCA

Life Cycle Assessment

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a tool designed to measure the environmental impact of a product throughout all stages of its life cycle—from raw material extraction to final disposal.

At Lebiu, we use this methodology to transparently analyze the entire journey of our materials. We evaluate every step—from the sustainable harvesting of cork bark to its transformation—to continuously improve our environmental impact and guide mindful design choices.

LCA allows us to support a more circular supply chain, reduce emissions, and provide our partners with verifiable data based on international (ISO) standards — ensuring the genuine sustainability of our products.

For Corskin, the calculated value is 1.2 kg GHG CO₂-eq per square metre, significantly lower than other fossil-based products on the market (8.2 kg) and animal leather (32 kg).

USDA

USDA BioPreferred®

USDA BioPreferred® is a certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for products with a renewable biological materials , such as plant fibers, natural oils, and starches.

The bio-based components is tested by independent laboratories, ensuring transparency and reliability. This certification promotes the use of sustainable materials and helps reduce reliance on fossil resources.

– The product contains bio-based ingredients from renewable plant or animal sources.
– The content is verified by independent laboratories.
– The USDA label ensures transparency and sustainability by limiting the use of petrochemical-based materials.

Corskin is 82% bio-based.

SDGs

Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a global benchmark for building a more equitable, sustainable, and responsible future. They guide decisions and actions toward a development model that respects both people and the environment.

Lebiu identifies with these goals by promoting a transparent and circular supply chain. Our choice to use cork—a natural, renewable, and low-impact material—actively contributes to the ecological transition and the protection of biodiversity.

Lebiu wants to contribute to sustainable development by working on six of the 17 goals of the 2030 Agenda.

GRS

Global Recycled Standard

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) verifies the percentage of recycled material and traces its origin from the supplier/recycler to the final product. GRS-certified products contain recycled materials that are verified at every stage of the supply chain and comply with environmental, social, and chemical criteria.

Choosing GRS-certified products means supporting a more transparent and responsible industry, committed to recycling and environmental sustainability. Our compliance ensures that every component has a traceable origin and meets international standards.

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