FAKE LEATHER? BMW PLEDGES FULLY VEGAN PLANT-BASED INTERIORS FROM 2023

EV Channels Review

John Cadogan critically dissects BMW's announcement of plant-based vegan interiors for 2023 models, labeling it a prime example of 'greenwashing' and 'woke appeasement.' He argues that replacing leather with plant-based plastics does not significantly reduce CO2 emissions, as the primary source of emissions from cattle is methane from rearing, not hide processing. Cadogan cites research suggesting leather is a valuable byproduct, and its non-use turns it into waste, potentially worsening environmental impact. He dismisses the 85% CO2 reduction claim as factually untrue and highlights that animal products will still be used in non-visible areas. The review concludes that BMW's move is a superficial marketing ploy rather than a genuine environmental initiative, failing to address the core issues of automotive production's carbon footprint.