Climatic change and environmental degradation are changing people’s preferences. With the effects of climatic damage now apparent, the interest has shifted towards eco-friendly products. Consequently, the change of interest is prompting major industries to shift towards environment-friendly products. The leather industry, for instance, is adhering to the changing dynamics. Widely scrutinized for damaging the environment, the leather industry is now shifting towards sustainable products. Sustainable leather has emerged as a popular choice in these changing times.
The eco-friendly product does not leave a carbon footprint. Moreover, it has provided industries with new techniques for cost-effective production. Let’s delve into the details and learn all about sustainable leather. We will discuss the pros and see how it is beneficial for the environment.
The Environmental Toll of Traditional Leather Production
Before learning about sustainable alternatives, it is important to know the impact of conventional production methods. Detailed below are the major ways traditional leather takes a toll on the environment.
Deforestation
Deforestation is a major issue caused by leather production. Deforestation is a big contributor to climate change. The industry clears big areas of forests for livestock. The livestock is raised for skin production. Additionally, deforestation can endanger rare wildlife species living on trees.
Tanning
Tanning is a common industry practice to turn skin and hides into leather. It also includes the release of harmful chemicals in the oceans. This poses a serious threat to marine life. One way or the other, this also impacts human health.
Excessive Use of Water
The production skin hide industry is water-intensive. Both tanning and animal rearing require huge volumes of water. The excess use contributes to the global water crisis. Furthermore, industrial usage may limit water supply to some remote regions. This can be a setback for the agricultural sector.
Chromium, for instance, is a common toxic heavy metal used in tanning. It can have severe consequences on the ecosystem, aquatic and human life.
Developments in Sustainable Leather Manufacturing
The environmental effects of conventional production methods have prompted industries to look for alternatives. Consequently, industries are investing in research to develop eco-friendly alternatives. Let’s take a look at some notable advancements in the sector.
Growing Use of Eco-Friendly Materials
The benefits of eco-friendly alternatives are plenty. Additionally, this caters to the increased demand for environment-friendly products. Conventional techniques are now taken over by new ones. For instance, the use of biodegradable materials and vegetable tanning.
This reduces harmful gas emissions to a significant level. Not only is it good for site workers but for the ecosystem as a whole.
Use of Renewable Energy
The initiatives to stop carbon emissions don’t stop at sustainable materials. Manufacturing industries are going the extra yard. For instance, solar and wind power is becoming a common thing. This also reduces harmful emissions and promotes sustainability.
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Improper waste disposal is a key contributor to pollution. Also, it harms the ecosystem in more ways than one. Eco-friendly initiatives have also shed light on this issue. Industries now pay more attention to waste disposal techniques. Moreover, the use of renewable resources eliminates this hazard as a whole.
Alternative Leather Materials
Advancement in the sector has presented alternative leather materials. For instance, pineapple, mushroom, and apple leather. These alternatives are great substitutes for the conventional type. Moreover, using these helps preserve the environment and wildlife.
Challenges of Using Alternative Materials
Alternative materials are a great way to promote environmental awareness. Additionally, the quality ensures that industries can use them in a wide range of products. Furthermore, animal welfare attracts more audiences towards these products.
However, besides the many benefits, there are some drawbacks too. Let’s go through them in detail.
High Cost
The whole transition to new production methods can cost a fair amount. Industries may be reluctant to invest huge capital. Similarly, alternative materials can be more expensive to produce. Consequently, high production rates reflect on product prices.
Some of the products may rise above the customer’s purchasing power. The production industry may also suffer a loss and decrease in customers.
Durability
Some sustainable materials aren’t as good as their traditional leather counterparts. Customers may not get the value for money in this case.
The advantages easily outweigh the drawbacks. Environment-conscious or skin-product lovers will keep on buying the products regardless of the price. Additionally, investment in research will open new horizons. There will be new and effective ways to bring down production costs.
Furthermore, the transition to eco-friendly production is a one-time cost. Considering the bright sides and rapidly changing public mindset, industries will have to change with time. Also, new techniques can help sustainable products become as good if not more than conventional skin items.
FAQs
What is Sustainable Leather?
It is the byproduct that industries take from regenerative farms. These farms are animal-friendly. Rather than breeding animals for specific purposes, material from meat industries comes into play. This ensures that no animal part goes to waste.
Moreover, sustainable skin products use eco-friendly production techniques. For instance, waterless tanning and the use of environment-friendly products.
Is Leather Biodegradable?
Yes, it is biodegradable. However, the period can vary with type. Typically, the biodegradation period is between 10 to 50 years.
Is Vegan Leather Sustainable?
This entirely depends on the type. For instance, plant-based products are environment-friendly. On the other hand, ones made from synthetic materials are a mixture of different components. These can take centuries to break down. Therefore, rendering certain vegan skin types ecologically unfriendly.
This is everything you need to know about sustainable leather. The eco-friendly aspect makes it a commendable choice for the production industry. The public’s growing interest shows how industries can benefit from changing trends.
Additionally, environment-friendly production techniques make this type more appealing for the masses. Industries adhering to these changing trends can greatly benefit in the long term. Whereas, businesses lacking behind may have to suffer the consequences and will eventually cease to exist.
Stay connected to learn about the advantages of different types of leather and more.
