How sustainable is
Leather
?
Leather is made of animal skin, mainly from hides that comes from animals raised for their meat. Conventional leather has a large very negative environmental impact because of the environmental impact from intensive animal farming and choice of tanning process. Traceability is as always of highest importance. Hides from animals that were raised at farms with regenerative farming practices, where the animals helped restore the soil so it can capture carbon and increase biodiversity is always recommended. When it comes to tanning, vegetable tanned leather is the best option in contrast to chrome tanning, which is toxic both to the environment and the people tanning. The Leather Working Group are promoting environmental friendly processes and traceability in the leather industry.
bergstrand material GUIDE ranking*
When sourcing leather, ask for the origin, look for vegetable tanned and non-chrome tanned leathers, which are approved in the Bergstrand Material Guide. Chrome-tanned leathers, which are more widely available are considered banned in the Material Guide.
Approved
Approved materials may be less expensive than preferred materials, but may not be as ethical or sustainable in their production. While approved materials are not considered the best option, they may be used in clothing production as long as certain standards and guidelines are followed.
Banned
Banned materials are those that we strongly recommend to discontinue for use in clothing production due to their negative environmental or health impacts. These materials may be highly toxic or non-biodegradable, and may pose a risk to the environment and to workers.
* The Bergstrand Material Guide Ranking is only a guide. Our consultants can help with accurate assessments of your brand’s use of materials.
Photography credit:
m0851
