The Problem: A majority of proclaimed 'sustainable' vegan leather options on the market contain a mid to high level of plastic content. And the reason why petroleum based vegan leather isn't sustainable for the long term is because… Through the observation of the fast fashion trend as an example, urgent solutions need to be deployed to offset it’s massive scale of the take-make-consume-throwaway linear model, as excessive production can lead to unnecessary waste, causing landfills to be full of materials that could have been used more efficiently/wisely on different projects. (Tsironis and Tsagarakis). Now imagine that petroleum based synthetic leather made of plastic reaches a scale of the fast fashion trend that dominates the fashion industry we see today. That is the direction the vegan leather industry is headed for. By using easy to produce low cost synthetics to sell products at high volumes, our landfills would just keep filling up because plastic takes decades to biodegrade! Hence, the call for a truly biodegradable leather alternative developed with the circular economy in mind is ringing louder than before. MM #AlternativeLeather: A greater circular solution for the vegan leather economy MM contributes toward a circular economy through the adoption of an upcycling strategy collaborating with high-end hotel groups. By repurposing high quality end-of-life bed sheets that are destined for landfill, MM transforms this waste material into bespoke #AlternativeLeather (https://www.mm-greentech.com/upcycling). This upcycling process significantly reduces scope 2 emissions, because recycling methods such as shredding and reweaving is not required. Furthermore, through the upcycling process, MM negates the excessive raw material consumption of cotton and the needless energy expenditure of recycling processes, increasing production efficiency, and at the same time adding immense product use value whilst completing a cycle of the circular economy. Designed with biodegradability in mind, MM’s plastic free #AlternativeLeather is made entirely from FSC Paper and BCI Cotton, ultimately having the ability to recirculate unwanted products back into nature safely. Through a biodegradability test (ISO 14855-1) conducted by SGS, MM's #AlternativeLeather achieved a staggering biodegradation result of over 90% under 90 days, certifying that MM’s #AlternativeLeather material is truly environmentally friendly. MM has carefully taken the steps to ensure that their plant based #AlternativeLeather promotes a circular economy from the get go. By adopting clean, green and sustainable values within the manufacturing process, MM is redefining sustainable luxury by providing environmentally friendly solutions to brands and enterprises. So…What is a circular economy and how can the traditional animal leather benefit from a circular economy? And how can the vegan leather industry follow suit? A circular economy is a sustainable looping model of production and consumption, the main idea of a circular economy is to extend product life cycles through reusing/recycling within the industrial economy as well as safely reintegrating waste back into nature’s ‘economy’ for environmental regeneration. This ensures that materials are reused and the environment stays clean, maximizing the potential of raw materials and creating extra value from newly recycled products (Circular Economy Introduction). The traditional animal leather industry is one of the highest contributors of the global economy (Kanagaraj et al.) and is considered as one of the most polluting industries, the scale of its material waste and environmental pollution is massive. As producing leather requires heavy chemical operations to convert raw hides and skins into finished leather, it negatively impacts the environment and affects the health of people who work in and live near leather tanneries. Therefore, a good waste management system is needed and is one of the more crucial aspects of aligning the industry with a sustainable circular economic model. Moreover, the industry recognizes that any innovative contribution towards converting animal leather tannery sludge waste into usable energy is of a very high accolade   (Ali et al. ; Moktadir et al.). There are three main challenges that the traditional animal leather industry faces in the context of a circular economy. Wastewater treatment, energy recovery during production, and chromium recovery and reuse. These challenges outline the sustainable direction required for the industry to move towards circularity(Ali et al.). By re-using treated waste water and chemicals within the production line, the traditional animal leather can gradually transform into a more circular economic practice, saving costs through a more streamlined and energy efficient production process while protecting the environment through the overall reduction of toxic discharge. For brands that participate in promoting circular economic practices can expect to receive a positive brand image, long-term competitiveness (Reporter) and enhancement in customer loyalty, as more and more individuals from Gen Z are speaking out with their purchasing decisions, demanding sustainable options over established brand names (“Gen Z Cares About Sustainability More Than Anyone Else – and Is Starting to Make Others Feel the Same Way”). As 22% of global respondents towards a survey indicate that ‘an affiliation with a big polluter’ is a no go, aligning shared values and the emotional connection towards nature is important for brands to create a loyalty based relationship with their customers that is personal and action-oriented (McKeever). Therefore, both vegan leather brands and traditional animal leather manufacturers both must consider pivoting to align their values with the sustainability movement to stay relevant by showing their continual commitment in order to grow in parallel with the newer generations. So... What is the best way to achieve a circular economy? It starts at every product's design phase. A product designed for a circular economy creates jobs, boosts economic growth, and stimulates innovation. Minimizing the dependence for imports and mitigating risks associated with supply and pricing. Driving a viable/true solution to put an end to unnecessary excessive waste. (Circular Economy europarl) A good foresight is key to designing for a product’s long term sustainability and environmental impact. Thus, it is important to fully determine every product’s composition prior to its launch, as every well-designed product created with sustainable values in mind facilitates a circular economy for itself. What does  a circular economy mean for the world? We can expect to see clean environments and economic growth as industries of the world transition away from a linear economic model. As less pollutants and less waste will affect our environment, more resources and higher energy efficiency will all lead to a more healthy and sustainable ecosystem and economy. Author: MM Limited Date: 11/03/2024 CITATIONS: [1] Tsironis, Georgios, and Konstantinos P. Tsagarakis. “Global Online Networking for Circular Economy Companies in Fashion, Apparel, and Textiles Industries, the LinkedIn Platform.” Current Opinion in Green and Sustainable Chemistry, vol. 41, June 2023, p. 100809. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cogsc.2023.100809. [2] Circular Economy Introduction. www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview. [3] Circular Economy: Definition, Importance and Benefits | News | European Parliament. www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/headlines/economy/20151201STO05603/circular-economy-definition-importance-and-benefits. [4] Ali, Arshid Mahmood, et al. “A Renewable and Sustainable Framework for Clean Fuel Towards Circular Economy for Solid Waste Generation in Leather Tanneries.” Fuel, vol. 351, Nov. 2023, p. 128962. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2023.128962. [5] Moktadir, Md. Abdul, et al. “Circular Economy Practices in the Leather Industry: A Practical Step Towards Sustainable Development.” Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 251, Apr. 2020, p. 119737. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.119737. [6] Kanagaraj, J., et al. “Eco-friendly Waste Management Strategies for Greener Environment Towards Sustainable Development in Leather Industry: A Comprehensive Review.” Journal of Cleaner Production, vol. 89, Feb. 2015, pp. 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2014.11.013. [7] “Gen Z Cares About Sustainability More Than Anyone Else – and Is Starting to Make Others Feel the Same Way.” World Economic Forum, 18 Mar. 2022, www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/03/generation-z-sustainability-lifestyle-buying-decisions [8] McKeever, Katie. “How Sustainability Drives Brand Loyalty in 2022.” Ometria, 19 Apr. 2022, ometria.com/blog/how-sustainability-drives-brand-loyalty-in-2022%ef%bf%bc. [9] Reporter, Guardian Staff. “Five New Ways the Circular Economy Can Build Brand Experience.” The Guardian, 10 July 2014, www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/five-ways-circular-economy-brand-experience.

Hermit crabs are now being spotted in the wild wearing plastic rubbish as their protective shell, as humans continue to use single-use plastic bottles and carelessly discarding them, a new era has dawned where animals are beginning to reuse our waste for their benefit. Whether or not these plastics cause any biological harm to the crab is unknown, But visually it does not look very natural to see moving pieces of human rubbish on the beach or on the ocean floor. While these crabs may be resourceful by utilizing plastic caps as their shell, something must be done to reduce the excessive volume of plastic within the marine environment as it ultimately cycles back into our chain of food supply, ending up on our dinner plates. As plastics continue to be an ongoing problem in the world, MM is doing its part in reducing the sheer amount of plastic being released into the wild, by completely eradicating plastics in our #AlternativeLeather materials. Saving the world mm by MM. #Earthday

Faced with the environmental impact of vegan leather (Mercado), MM stands out by blending style with sustainability. Here, we explore the ecological issues of traditional vegan leather and showcase how MM’s eco-innovations are redefining the fashion and leather industry's standards. Unveiling the Truth: The Environmental Dilemma of Vegan Leather While vegan leather is often touted as an eco-friendly alternative, its environmental impact tells a different story. A significant portion of vegan leather consists of 30-50% plastics, predominantly polyurethane (PU) and, to a lesser extent, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polylactic acid (PLA). Despite the appeal of PLA as a biodegradable option derived from renewable resources, its degradation requires specific industrial conditions often not found in natural environments, leading to pollution and waste. PU, favored for its lightweight and economical price , is non-biodegradable and involves toxic chemicals in its production, posing health and environmental risks (Atiwesh et al.). Additionally, the production of these materials can lead to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and increased greenhouse gas emissions. Despite advancements in sustainable materials like cactus or apple, the widespread use of plastic in vegan leather remains a critical environmental issue. These products contribute to long-term pollution, with vegan leather items lingering in landfills for decades, releasing microplastics into ecosystems over time, affecting food safety and marine life. The urgent need for genuine sustainability extends beyond fashion to all sectors utilizing synthetic materials. As markets worldwide continue to evolve, it’s imperative for consumers and producers across industries to demand higher standards and transparency. This collective effort is crucial to fostering the development of materials that are truly eco-friendly and sustainable, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations. MM: Revolutionizing Sustainability with #AlternativeLeather In the quest for sustainable materials, MM leads with innovation, introducing #AlternativeLeather that redefines the ethos of eco-friendly design. As the vegan leather industry grapples with environmental challenges, MM stands out, not just observing but actively driving change with their groundbreaking material. MM’s ‘alternative leather’ is a game changer in the realm of sustainable fashion. Made from a blend of BCI-certified cotton and FSC-certified paper, this innovative material boasts a 90.6% biodegradation degree, indirectly surpassing the vegan leather industry’s average of 30% biodegradation (Lorenz). By completely eliminating plastics from their production process, MM has not only reduced harm but also set a new benchmark for eco-conscious materials. With 100% plastic-free composition, MM’s #AlternativeLeather is currently making waves in the world of wallets and bags, setting a new standard for luxury accessories. Even with its biodegradable nature, it doesn’t compromise on quality or style. The material offers diverse textures and patterns, matching the luxe feel of real leather. These features show MM’s commitment to the highest standards of aesthetics and environmental responsibility. As the conversation around biodegradable materials gain momentum, MM is leading the charge. Their product isn’t just a sustainable option; it’s a beacon for the future of eco-friendly luxury. By merging elegance with environmental stewardship, MM invites the industry and consumers to embrace a new standard where being fashionable is synonymous with being eco-conscious. The following comparative graph highlights the tangible impacts of MM’s #AlternativeLeather, showcasing its superior environmental performance compared conventional vegan and real leathers. #AlternativeLeather vs Vegan Leather vs Real Leather How does MM’s #AlternativeLeather differentiate from vegan leather? MM has revolutionized the leather industry with its sustainable approach, distinguishing itself from both real leather and other vegan leather options. The use of natural tannins is at the heart of MM's innovation, derived from plant sources like roots, wood, bark, leaves and fruit (The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica). These tannins, traditionally used in leather tanning and fabric dyeing, play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of MM's leather (Mustafa et al.) . Unlike many vegan leathers that can have an unpleasant, chemical-like smell (Stitch), MM's products possess a natural, musky aroma. This difference in scent is because MM's leather is made from organic materials,  where natural tannins are already present within MM’s paper layer. As a result, MM's leather does not only smell better but also develops a beautiful patina, an aging quality often cherished in high-quality leather goods. In contrast, the odor of some vegan leathers is due to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are used during their manufacturing. These synthetic-based materials cannot develop the same natural patina and are often described as having a fishy or chemical scent (Stitch; Blackwell). Beyond just the look and smell, MM is committed to safety and environmental responsibility. MM collaborates exclusively with factories that supply to well-known international brands, ensuring strict adherence to substance restrictions under REACH (a European Union regulation) and the California Proposition 65. This means MM's leather products are free from harmful toxins, making them a safe and eco-friendly choice for consumers. By choosing MM, customers enjoy the best of both worlds: the classic appeal of real leather and the eco-conscious, health-safe benefits of modern innovation. Embrace Change: A Sustainable Future Awaits As we navigate towards a greener and more sustainable future, our awareness of environmental impact deepens. Increasingly, consumers are demanding products that reflect their eco-conscious values, spurring a demand for real sustainable options. MM leads this charge with its #PlasticFree #AlternativeLeather, revolutionizing the industry and inspiring a new standard of environmental accountability. Choosing MM’s #AlternativeLeather means opting for style and quality while making a decisive vote for a cleaner, greener planet. It's a commitment to preserving our singular Earth. Let's unite in this transformative journey towards a future where fashion and sustainability exist in perfect harmony. By embracing MM’s #AlternativeLeather, you become an integral part of the shift towards responsible fashion – saving the world mm by MM. #Earthday Author: MM Limited Date: Jan 26 2024 Citations: 1 Atiwesh, Ghada, et al. “Environmental Impact of Bioplastic Use: A Review.” Heliyon, vol. 7, no. 9, Sept. 2021, p. e07918. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07918. 2 The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Tannin | Definition, in Plants, Uses, and Facts.” Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Dec. 2023, www.britannica.com/science/tannin. 3 Mustafa, Mohd Tamizi, et al. “Sustainable Leather Tanning With Pontederia Crassipes Tannin: A Promising Eco-friendly Alternative.” Cleaner Engineering and Technology, Dec. 2023, p. 100717. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clet.2023.100717. 4 Stitch, Cut And. “Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Vegan Leather - Cut www.cutandstitch.com/blog/2021/03/28/everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know-about-vegan-leather.and Stitch.” Cut And Stitch, 28 Mar. 2021, 5 Blackwell, Sophia. “How to Get Rid of Vegan Leather Smell: Freshen Up!” Sewing Team, 1 Jan. 2024, sewingteam.com/how-to-get-rid-of-vegan-leather-smell. 6 Mercado, Angely. “Is ‘Vegan’ Leather Really Better for the Planet?” Popular Science, 16 Aug. 2021, www.popsci.com/environment/leather-sustainability-ethics. 7 Williams, Ellie, et al. “Life Cycle Assessment of MycoWorks’ ReishiTM: The First Low-carbon and Biodegradable Alternative Leather.” Environmental Sciences Europe, vol. 34, no. 1, Dec. 2022, https://doi.org/10.1186/s12302-022-00689-x. 8 Lorenz, Paula. “Marketing Hype or Reality? Why Plant-and-Plastic Hybrids Are the Worst of Both Worlds.” The Circular Laboratory, 2 Nov. 2021, thecircularlaboratory.com/marketing-hype-why-plant-and-plastic-hybrids-are-the-worst-of-both-worlds.

Welcome to the relaunched MM Limited website where sustainable luxury meets innovation. Join us on a transformative journey as we introduce MM Limited, a brand that challenges the norms of the leather industry and offers a bespoke, sustainable alternative. OUR STORY Our story began with a bold idea: to create a material that combines the elegance of leather with a deep commitment to sustainability. Boasting extensive experience working with leather materials, our co-founders understood the beauty of leather craft goods was coupled with hidden costs - particularly its toll on the environment. From the onset, raising livestock requires vast amounts of land, water, and feed, leading to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. The subsequent tanning process involves the use of toxic chemicals, including chromium, which not only endanger human health but also harm the environment. Fortunately, they found an alternative in the form of MM. A material made from a blend of paper and cotton that magically performs like leather, and comes with a range of likable qualities like an international biodegradable standard of ISO 14855-1. What’s more, MM is a perfect blend of modern and traditional manufacturing, employing advanced green material science to create the base layer but employing traditional leather tanning techniques in its finish – involving both old and new industry into the end-product. "A perfect blend of modern and traditional manufacturing" THE MATERIAL MM is a material superior to leather meant to shock, shakeup, even delight the luxury industry. Superior in many ways to traditional leather, it requires less energy, eliminates the need for toxic chemicals in its production, and being completely plastic-free it is biodegradable in landfill conditions. "Completely plastic-free" Moreover, its simple material composition opens up possibilities in upcycling and reducing waste. All that, while still retaining the things we love about leather: the smell, the texture, and its irresistibly look of wear over time that makes each leather product stand out. MM's groundbreaking features will rock this new era of sustainable luxury. SUSTAINABLE LUXURY REDEFINED In pursuit of this concept, sustainable luxury, we have collaborate with like-minded designers to create collections that celebrate innovation, individuality, and the power of conscious fashion. As we have repeated frequently, sustainable luxury is not about the final product—it's about influencing an entirely new life trend. "Sustainable luxury is not about the final product—it's about influencing an entirely new life trend." We are proud that on our new website you can explore our concept of sustainable luxury. See our new Product Catalogue and witness the elegance, craftsmanship, and environmental consciousness that define MM products. From handbags to accessories, each item reflects our commitment to sustainability without compromising on style or quality. Or if you like what you see, start off on the Base Materials Catalogue and partner with us to customize your chosen piece to make it truly unique and a reflection of your personality. Forward-thinking brands and designers are recognizing the imperative to change, responding to the growing demands for transparency and sustainability. They are embracing alternative materials and exploring regenerative practices that harmonize with nature, seeking to minimize their ecological footprint while maximizing their positive impact. Thanks to them, we have great hopes that our groundbreaking material will catch on. "Forward-thinking brands and designers are recognizing the imperative to change, responding to the growing demands for transparency and sustainability" Join us on this transformative journey - let MM redefine your perception of luxury. Together, we can shape a future where elegance and sustainability coexist, creating a positive impact on our planet and the fashion industry.