FSA or Semi-Artefact Sheet

FSA, like FDL, allows the tappers to coagulate the latex into high-quality, thin sheets to make handicrafts within the rainforest or near a plantation. Dyes are added to colour the natural rubber and a vulcanising agent to improve durability and its mechanical properties. While the sheets are in the coagulation stage, the rubber can be moulded and bonded together to make shoes, accessories or decorative objects. Once dry, the sheets can be cut into flat shapes, and used like an elastic textile or leather to manufacture numerous products.

FSA an organic alternative towards a more sustainable world without animal leather

FSA offers the opportunity to incorporate a natural material, sourced and processed by regional communities, into your design concept or artistic creation, which can truly and directly have a sustainable impact, not only on the environment but more importantly on the lives of communities in the Amazon rainforest. Furthermore, this material can be used as a non-cruel leather alternative, which can be returned to the environment as a circular product without concerns. The latex harvested by the communities is processed directly to FSA. The profits generated from this labour intensive work hold not only material value; through the harvesting of rubber trees, large territories of primary rainforests can be preserved and protected. This is achieved through constant forest monitoring by Seringueiros, who harvest the wild, natural rubber.

“FSA is not only a sustainable material but also protects the forest.” Nilda, Chairwoman of the Jamaraqua Community

If you are interested in sourcing this material or supporting its further development, please contact me directly.