As the textile industry grapples with the mounting need for sustainable materials, pineapple leaf fiber (PALF)—also known as Piña fiber—has risen as a natural, biodegradable, and resource-efficient alternative. Extracted from the agricultural waste of pineapple farming, this remarkable fiber not only reduces environmental harm but also holds the potential to support local economies and redefine what sustainability in fashion can look like.

What is Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF)?

PALF is extracted from the long, tough leaves of the pineapple plant, typically discarded after fruit harvesting. Traditionally treated as waste—burned or left to decompose—these leaves are now being upcycled into valuable raw material, in line with circular economy principles.

Composed primarily of cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose, PALF is known for its strength, lightness, and natural sheen. These qualities make it suitable for a wide range of uses, from fashion textiles and accessories to composites used in furniture and even automotive interiors.

Environmental Benefits of PALF

🌱 1. Waste Reduction & Upcycling

By converting post-harvest pineapple leaves into fiber, PALF production significantly reduces agricultural waste and prevents harmful CO₂ emissions that result from burning. For example, burning 33 kg of leaves emits around 6 kg of CO₂—emissions that can be avoided through fiber extraction.