Frequently asked questions
Is cactus leather truly sustainable?
There are environmental benefits to the way Desserto grows and harvests its cactus. At its ranch in Mexico:
- Nopal grows without irrigation, herbicides or pesticides.
- Only mature leaves are harvested, allowing the plant to keep growing.
- The leaves are dried in the sun before processing.
These practices are part of why we chose the material. To understand its impact beyond farming, Desserto has also assessed the material’s production.
Has the material’s environmental impact been assessed?
Yes. Desserto has published an early-stage life cycle assessment covering its material through production. It reports lower water use, energy use and greenhouse-gas emissions than the leather and PU benchmarks used in the study.
The assessment covers the Desserto material only, not the finished Póoj Studios bag.
How durable is cactus leather?
Our cactus leather is suitable for everyday use. It is:
✔ Scratch-resistant
✔ Water-resistant
A little care will help keep it in good condition over time. You’ll find our care instructions below.
Are Póoj Studios bags vegan?
Yes. Our bags are made without animal-derived materials. We use cactus leather alongside plant-based and recycled textiles.
Where are your products manufactured?
Our cactus leather is made in Mexico. Our bags are then handmade in Italy by a small team of skilled women.
How do I care for cactus leather?
- Cleaning: Wipe your bag with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning products.
- Storage: Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Conditioning: Cactus leather doesn’t need leather conditioner.
| Per m², from cultivation to factory gate | Greenhouse gases (kg CO₂e) | Water (m³) | Energy (MJ) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desserto® | 1.39 | 0.02 | 34.33 |
| Animal leather | 27.30 | 32.95 | 335.84 |
| PU | 4.81 | 2.93 | 92.93 |
Figures reported by Desserto. They cover the material only – not the finished bag, its transport or its end of life.
Our material has been independently certified according to multiple international standards.
Certifications apply exclusively to the material.
