Better Leather.

Better leather is about taking into consideration the manufacturing process, impact on the environment, impact on humans, and impact on animals being killed for the product.

Traditional manufacturing of leather is chemical intensive and uses much energy. Chemical processing of leather for tanning contains heavy metals such as chromium and other heavy metals. The EU's REACH guidelines have banned chrome VI, a carcinogen, in leather products as a restricted substance. With more of these chemicals and restrictions being made many companies have opted to find alternative dying techniques and join third party organizations which certify their products as chemical compliant such as the Oeko -Tex leather standard.

Leather also has a significant environmental impact by the excessive use of water and energy.  Both require large depleting resources to do so. In addition, the potential run off of toxic water waste is of concern to waterways and groundwater.

The environmental impact of cattle and its end use is one of the most significant causes of climate change in the world. But it is not realistic to say everyone will adopt a vegan diet or endanger the farmers income because of a political stance, all or nothing, environmental agenda. Balance has to be achieved with more innovative solutions in manufacturing and processing meat and hides.

Non sustainable leather can have significant impacts on our planets resources. As well as increased health risks due to chemical use in the tanning process. There are a few ways to approach a solution that might offer a more sustainable option. Keep in mind. All options are sustainable if the product is considerably bought, used, and repurposed in a circular mindset.  One might think PVC would be a more sustainable option but I am here to tell you, as an expert,  plastic alternatives have their own set of disastrous environmental repercussions. Green Marketing is very adept at making you believe those shoes made out of recycled plastic bottles are good for the environment but what is good for the environment is considered consumption and the complete disappearance of plastic as a means of manufacturing.

Soludos (sneaker shown in Instagram photo) uses a  LWG gold rated tannery which omits chrome from their processing. As a consumer, when shopping online this year, look at the tabs at the top of the companies website or product details for description. 

More companies are using persons like myself to communicate their companies "sustainability" initiatives along with describing their processes online. 

Any questions or need for a consultation, please feel free to reach out.

Kimberly@CreatingSustainableStrategies.com

Be Well in 2021,

Kim