Dr Carmen Hijosa, Founder and Chief Creative and Innovation Officer of Ananas Anam Ltd, developed Piñatex®, a natural plant-based material made from pineapple leaf fibre. She is an ethical entrepreneur with a vision for a more sustainable future, connecting people, ecology and economics.
Originally from Spain, Carmen’s career has taken her around the world. The journey of Piñatex began when she realised the toxic impact of mass leather production while consulting in the Philippines. Driven to find an alternative solution, Carmen undertook a PhD at the Royal College of Art (UK) to develop Piñatex. As a result, she has spearheaded a vibrant new industry that is socially, environmentally and economically responsible.
