Do you think leather isn’t suitable for winter? Then you haven’t heard of double-face leather! It’s one of the warmest and most natural solutions for the season. Made primarily from sheepskin, it combines two faces in one garment: soft wool on the inside for warmth and supple leather on the outside for protection.
In the coldest northern regions, people rely on double-face coats, hats, gloves, and boots for their unmatched warmth and resilience to extreme temperatures and conditions. With double-face leather, you’ll stay cozy, comfortable, and protected-and we guarantee that you’ll truly enjoy winter, perhaps for the first time.
What is Double-Face Leather ?
Double-face leather is a natural material crafted from lamb or sheepskin, where the wool remains attached to the leather during the tanning process. This creates a garment that provides both insulation and protection in one piece, eliminating the need for additional linings. The result is an incredibly functional and versatile material that keeps you warm in the harshest conditions.
The Advantages of Double-Face Leather
Warm:
The wool interior provides natural warmth, while the leather exterior shields against wind, snow, and rain.
Simple:
Double-face leather garments are a timeless investment, built to last for decades and easy to care for. Unlike fast fashion, a quality sheepskin coat can endure over 50 years, combining style, durability, and low maintenance.
Sustainable:
Double-face leather is sustainable because it upcycles meat industry byproducts into high-quality, durable, and warm garments, reducing waste that would otherwise go to landfills.
Simple, Warm, Sustainable
Double-face on frosty, cold and windy days – no more cold ears, feet or hands – enjoy the time outside, whether you commute to work by train or bus, or go sledding with your children. With double-face leather, nature makes it easy for us to stay warm and be sustainable!
https://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.png00Pelle Anderssonhttps://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.pngPelle Andersson2024-12-12 16:34:152025-04-22 11:05:25COTANCE News 12 / 2024 December
The Takeaway? Turning hides into leather is more than just a craft-it’s a powerful solution to fight fashion-induced climate change, reduce waste, and create beauty that lasts.
Leather is a timeless circular material with a vital role to play in sustainability. Let’s share its story and give it the recognition it truly deserves!
You want to know more: A startling revelation |LeatherBiz article The study on “Carbon Footprint of European Bovine Leather (COTANCE) Study Preliminary Life Cycle Assessment Report 2024-03 (LHCA)Web Leather and Hide Council of America |Web site
European Leather Industry Provides Scientific Evidence in Support of Excluding Leather from the Scope of the EUDR
Leather is not the driver of deforestation-thisis obvious to anyone involved in the leather supply chain, from livestock producers to fashion brands. Yet, with leather included in the scope of the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), it became essential to support this fact with comprehensive analysis.
With this September newsletter, we are proud to present scientific evidence supporting the European leather industry’s position in the EUDR Review. The study, “Socio-economic and Environmental Analysis of the Effects of Regulation 2023/1115/EU on the European Leather Sector,” commissioned by UNIC and COTANCE and conducted by Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies of the University of Pisa, was unveiled on September 18, 2024, at the Lineapelle Fair to become a game-changer in defense of our industry.
The study, structured into technical, socio-economic, and environmental assessments, reveals key findings that will be instrumental for the leather industry during the EUDR review process.
No Direct Link to Deforestation: The study, supported by an extensive technical analysis (94 million+ records, 29,200+ active serial titles, and 330,000+ books) and 28 stakeholder interviews, found no direct link between leather and deforestation. Leather is derived from cattle raised primarily for meat and dairy, and its production does not incentivize cattle farming.
Severe Economic Impact: The EUDR’s stringent traceability requirements could severely disrupt the European cattle hide supply chain, leaving European tanners without needed raw materials. This could force businesses to close and result in significant job losses across the industry’s supply chain.
Environmental Risks of Alternatives: The study warns that short-circuiting the European leather industry and replacing leather with synthetic alternatives like polyurethane leather-like materials (PU LLM) could increase environmental damage, in terms of higher emissions and resource use. Diverting cattle hides to landfills or to countries with weaker environmental standards would undermine the Green Deal’s goals.
At the EUDR event in Lineapelle, a panel of global industry experts unanimously agreed: including leather in the EUDR is illogical and will not reduce cattle-related deforestation. Instead, it risks disrupting supply chains and shifting production to regions with lower environmental standards.
Panel participants from left to right: Ricardo Andrade (CICB, Brazil), Toni Baltes (German Hide Association WHL, ICHSLTA), Max Engelke (A+B-hides), Micaela Topper (AHSLEA, Australia), Kevin Latner (LHCA, USA) and Dave Harrison (Beef+Lamb, New Zealand).
COTANCE stands firm in advocating for the removal of leather from the EUDR scope, presenting the Sant’Anna study in support of its argument. This academic investigation will be providing crucial intelligence in the context of the European Commission’s review of the regulation.
Stay tuned for more updates as COTANCE continues to engage with policymakers and stakeholders to safeguard the interests of the European leather industry.
If you want to go further: Socio-economic and Environmental Analysis of the Effects of Regulation 2023/1115/EU on the European Leather Sector | Study “EPP demands delay of ‘bureaucratic monster’ deforestation law” | Article “Deforestation in the leather supply chain takes center stage in Milan and Paris” | Article
https://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.png00Svenska Garveriidkareföreningenhttps://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.pngSvenska Garveriidkareföreningen2024-10-15 14:31:122025-04-22 11:00:31Leather is not the driver of deforestation
European Leather Industry Provides Scientific Evidence in Support of Excluding Leather from the Scope of the EUDR
Leather is not the driver of deforestation-thisis obvious to anyone involved in the leather supply chain, from livestock producers to fashion brands. Yet, with leather included in the scope of the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), it became essential to support this fact with comprehensive analysis.
With this September newsletter, we are proud to present scientific evidence supporting the European leather industry’s position in the EUDR Review. The study, “Socio-economic and Environmental Analysis of the Effects of Regulation 2023/1115/EU on the European Leather Sector,” commissioned by UNIC and COTANCE and conducted by Sant’Anna School of Advanced Studies of the University of Pisa, was unveiled on September 18, 2024, at the Lineapelle Fair to become a game-changer in defense of our industry.
The study, structured into technical, socio-economic, and environmental assessments, reveals key findings that will be instrumental for the leather industry during the EUDR review process.
No Direct Link to Deforestation: The study, supported by an extensive technical analysis (94 million+ records, 29,200+ active serial titles, and 330,000+ books) and 28 stakeholder interviews, found no direct link between leather and deforestation. Leather is derived from cattle raised primarily for meat and dairy, and its production does not incentivize cattle farming.
Severe Economic Impact: The EUDR’s stringent traceability requirements could severely disrupt the European cattle hide supply chain, leaving European tanners without needed raw materials. This could force businesses to close and result in significant job losses across the industry’s supply chain.
Environmental Risks of Alternatives: The study warns that short-circuiting the European leather industry and replacing leather with synthetic alternatives like polyurethane leather-like materials (PU LLM) could increase environmental damage, in terms of higher emissions and resource use. Diverting cattle hides to landfills or to countries with weaker environmental standards would undermine the Green Deal’s goals.
At the EUDR event in Lineapelle, a panel of global industry experts unanimously agreed: including leather in the EUDR is illogical and will not reduce cattle-related deforestation. Instead, it risks disrupting supply chains and shifting production to regions with lower environmental standards.
Panel participants from left to right: Ricardo Andrade (CICB, Brazil), Toni Baltes (German Hide Association WHL, ICHSLTA), Max Engelke (A+B-hides), Micaela Topper (AHSLEA, Australia), Kevin Latner (LHCA, USA) and Dave Harrison (Beef+Lamb, New Zealand).
COTANCE stands firm in advocating for the removal of leather from the EUDR scope, presenting the Sant’Anna study in support of its argument. This academic investigation will be providing crucial intelligence in the context of the European Commission’s review of the regulation.Stay tuned for more updates as COTANCE continues to engage with policymakers and stakeholders to safeguard the interests of the European leather industry.
If you want to go further: Socio-economic and Environmental Analysis of the Effects of Regulation 2023/1115/EU on the European Leather Sector | Study “EPP demands delay of ‘bureaucratic monster’ deforestation law” | Article “Deforestation in the leather supply chain takes center stage in Milan and Paris” | Article Share Tweet Forward Share
https://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.png00Svenska Garveriidkareföreningenhttps://www.swedishtanners.se/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Swedish-Tanners-Logo-200.pngSvenska Garveriidkareföreningen2024-10-15 13:56:252025-04-22 11:00:31Leather is not the driver of deforestation
Welcome to our Summer Edition! With the COTANCE July newsletter, we invite you to spend these summer holidays immersed in the world of leather.
Explore the UNESCO Sheep Value Chain in Millau, France, a center for leather production since the Middle Ages. Attend leather craftsmanship workshops, read about the leather, or consider joining upcoming leather-related events.
Exploring the famous Sheep Value Chain
Millau has been a center for leather production since the Middle Ages. Its historical significance in sheep farming and glove-making has shaped the region’s identity over the centuries. The traditional craft of glove-making in Millau is particularly renowned, with techniques passed down through generations.
That is why its inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage in France, followed by the ongoing process of its inclusion in UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List, highlights the importance of the sheep value chain in Millau. This recognition celebrates the harmonious integration of sheep farming with leather production, emphasizing sustainable practices and artisanal skills. It acknowledges the role of local craftsmen and women in preserving traditional methods while adapting to modern demands.
– Visit the Millau Glove Museum to explore the history of glove-making. The museum features an impressive collection of gloves, historical artifacts, and exhibits on traditional crafting techniques.
2. local tanneries:
– Take a tour of local tanneries to see the traditional tanning process up close. Many tanneries in Millau offer guided tours where visitors can learn about the craftsmanship and methods used to produce high-quality leather.
3. sheep farming tours:
– Experience the region’s sheep farming firsthand. Tours often include visits to local farms, where you can learn about sheep breeds, wool production, and the integral role of sheep in the local economy.
4. cultural festivals:
– Millau hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year that celebrate its leather and sheep farming heritage. These events feature artisan markets, live demonstrations, and traditional performances.
Millau offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a region where tradition meets craftsmanship. Whether you’re interested in the art of leather-making, the history of sheep farming, or simply enjoying the beautiful French countryside, Millau provides an enriching experience.
For more information and to plan your visit, check local tourism resources and heritage sites in Millau: https://www.explore-millau.com/
“Field, Fork, Fashion” by Alice V Robinson In this personal investigation into ethical and traceable leather, fashion designer Alice Robinson begins a ground-breaking journey into the origin story of leather and its connection to food and farming.
“Leather and Footwear Sustainability” editor Subramanian Senthilkannan Muthu This book examines the manufacturing, supply chain and product-level sustainability of leather and footwear products, also exploring interesting areas of leather and footwear sustainability, such as waste & the 3R’s and their certification for sustainability.
The Sustainable Leather Forum (SLF) is the first international event dedicated to CSR in the leather industries, held in Paris, France. It gathers over 400 international participants, including major fashion corporations, SMEs, institutional bodies, and consultancies, to discuss social, environmental, and economic issues and share CSR best practices.
LINEAPELLE is the most important international exhibition dedicated to leather, accessories, components, synthetics and models for footwear, leather goods, garments and furniture.
We wish you a pleasant summer holiday and hope you enjoy discovering the wonderful world of leather this summer!
Best Regards, COTANCE Secretariat
If you want to go further: Explore Millau – leather-related activities Website Leatherbiz about Millau | Article Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Pays de Millau | Website
Welcome to our Summer Edition! With the COTANCE July newsletter, we invite you to spend these summer holidays immersed in the world of leather.
Explore the UNESCO Sheep Value Chain in Millau, France, a center for leather production since the Middle Ages. Attend leather craftsmanship workshops, read about the leather, or consider joining upcoming leather-related events.
Exploring the famous Sheep Value Chain
Millau has been a center for leather production since the Middle Ages. Its historical significance in sheep farming and glove-making has shaped the region’s identity over the centuries. The traditional craft of glove-making in Millau is particularly renowned, with techniques passed down through generations.
That is why its inclusion in the Intangible Cultural Heritage in France, followed by the ongoing process of its inclusion in UNESCO’s prestigious World Heritage List, highlights the importance of the sheep value chain in Millau. This recognition celebrates the harmonious integration of sheep farming with leather production, emphasizing sustainable practices and artisanal skills. It acknowledges the role of local craftsmen and women in preserving traditional methods while adapting to modern demands.
– Visit the Millau Glove Museum to explore the history of glove-making. The museum features an impressive collection of gloves, historical artifacts, and exhibits on traditional crafting techniques.
2. local tanneries:
– Take a tour of local tanneries to see the traditional tanning process up close. Many tanneries in Millau offer guided tours where visitors can learn about the craftsmanship and methods used to produce high-quality leather.
3. sheep farming tours:
– Experience the region’s sheep farming firsthand. Tours often include visits to local farms, where you can learn about sheep breeds, wool production, and the integral role of sheep in the local economy.
4. cultural festivals:
– Millau hosts various cultural festivals throughout the year that celebrate its leather and sheep farming heritage. These events feature artisan markets, live demonstrations, and traditional performances.
Millau offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a region where tradition meets craftsmanship. Whether you’re interested in the art of leather-making, the history of sheep farming, or simply enjoying the beautiful French countryside, Millau provides an enriching experience.
For more information and to plan your visit, check local tourism resources and heritage sites in Millau: https://www.explore-millau.com/
“Field, Fork, Fashion” by Alice V Robinson In this personal investigation into ethical and traceable leather, fashion designer Alice Robinson begins a ground-breaking journey into the origin story of leather and its connection to food and farming.
“Leather and Footwear Sustainability” editor Subramanian Senthilkannan Muthu This book examines the manufacturing, supply chain and product-level sustainability of leather and footwear products, also exploring interesting areas of leather and footwear sustainability, such as waste & the 3R’s and their certification for sustainability.
The Sustainable Leather Forum (SLF) is the first international event dedicated to CSR in the leather industries, held in Paris, France. It gathers over 400 international participants, including major fashion corporations, SMEs, institutional bodies, and consultancies, to discuss social, environmental, and economic issues and share CSR best practices.
LINEAPELLE is the most important international exhibition dedicated to leather, accessories, components, synthetics and models for footwear, leather goods, garments and furniture.
We wish you a pleasant summer holiday and hope you enjoy discovering the wonderful world of leather this summer!
Best Regards, COTANCE Secretariat
If you want to go further: Explore Millau – leather-related activities Website Leatherbiz about Millau | Article Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Pays de Millau | Website
Debunking Myths: Andrea Bertaglio on the Role of Leather and Livestock in Sustainability
Andrea Bertagliois an independent journalist, spokesperson for European Livestock Voice and author of the book “In defence of Meat”. He is known for his in-depth knowledge of the meat industry and is therefore perfectly placed to give insight into the importance of livestock and leather sectors, their crucial roles in the circular economy, and their joint challenges in times of greenwashing.
Answering the question on the relationship between animal livestock and humans, Andrea Bertaglio said: “Humankind and livestock have been proceeding together since the dawn of time. Meat made us humans. Without animal foods, we couldn’t develop our brains as they are. Without hunting, we couldn’t have organized our first ways of communication and our first kind of communities and societies. And if we speak about modern farming, we speak of nutrition, culture, traditions, know-how, economy, and hundreds of other things. Livestock is an incredibly important part of human life, and I hope it can still be like that for a very long time”. Answering the question on the relationship between animal livestock and humans,
The same is true for leather, which has long been in the history of man. Findings from the archaeological site in Schöningen (Lower Saxony ) show that it dates back 320 000 years. An engraving was found on the remains of a bear’s skin, which evidences that hominids in northern Europe also hunted bears and skinned them to get meat and to use their hide to protect themselves from the cold. Leather features in human history.
“We have leather because it is a by-product from meat production. And it has been like that since prehistorical times, I suppose. One of the best and oldest examples of “circular economy”. It simply makes sense. Otherwise, it would be like picking a fruit only to keep the peel, which is absurd. Besides, leather is a great product: instead of being disposed of as waste, hides and skins are transformed into one of the most durable, enjoyable, and sustainable products ever”, the journalist continued.
“Leather is the most bio-friendly in the car and is the most natural, sustainable, environmentally good by-product of the meat industry. The cows are not being grown for their leather”, – says nutritionist Diana Rodgers
Furthermore, leather is a natural material that can be repaired, reused, and repurposed, highlighting its crucial role in the circular economy and establishing it as a prime choice for sustainable practices.
Despite these facts, both the leather and meat industries are facing a wave of unjustified accusations and manipulations from radical activist, vegan societies, whose deceptive narratives are likely to fall into the scope of the upcoming EU “Green Claims” Directive.
As an independent journalist, writing nearly two decades on environment and sustainability, Andrea Bertaglio has a mission: to crash the fake, dangerous, hypocritical narrative of the vegan world.
Reflecting on his daily motivation, he told VDL, the association for the German leather industry and COTANCE member: “I am highly motivated by the fact that vegan/animal rights activism is one of the biggest frauds we have seen in many years: they paint in green and give an ethical message to things which are only and merely based on profit. I am disturbed by the good faith of many people in the hands of cunning corporations. Playing the victim while making loads of money is very trendy at the moment, and I try my best to fight this”.
He says many people adopt a vegan lifestyle with noble intentions, seeking a holistic approach to improving the environment, animal welfare, and personal health. “The vegan narrative is perfect because it puts environment, climate, animals, and health together, providing a prepacked, easy solution, emphasizing the benefits of choosing plant-based options which may include some commercially processed alternatives. They fell into the trap of very clever marketing” . However, he expresses concern that individuals might eventually reconsider their choices as they evaluate the long-term impacts of their dietary and lifestyle decisions on their health.
He further says: “Not everyone knows that to grow synthetic meat, its cells must be in a soup of growth hormones and antibiotics (yes, those banned and extremely reduced in animal breeding!). Not only that, but according to some studies, lab-grown meat can impact up to 50 times more than livestock farming, and to be produced, it must be grown in extremely energy-intensive bioreactors. For now, it is just another way to generate audiences, debate and polarization. It is no coincidence that many newspaper articles have been written about this product, but very few scientific papers”.
The same can be said about “vegan leather”, whose adverse impact on the environment starts to become visible. “Vegan leather,” commonly known as “faux leather,” is essentially plastic derived from fossil fuels, contributing significantly to climate change and ecosystem pollution. Attempts to reduce the amount of plastic, mixing it partly with agricultural produce or waste, resulted in a significant amount of these products becoming non-recyclable textile waste due to their reliance on polyurethane binders and coatings (plastic).
Such fakes quickly decompose into microplastic. Consumers need to know that more durable and sustainable options exist, like leather.
Remember: animals are not killed for leather. Their skins & hides represent on average just 1% of the animal’s economic value. Leather is just the result of a by-product of the meat industry. European Tanners transform hides & skins into sustainable fashion materials, generating wealth and jobs in Europe. That means opting for leather helps upcycle a resource that would otherwise go to waste.
The world is not black and white. Don’t become a victim of manipulating narratives that might make you feel neurotic and guilty. Make your own choices based on the evidence.
Regardless of your choice, the fact remains that leather is one of the smartest and most sustainable options a person should promote… even if you are vegan.
Edited by
In cooperation with
If you want to go further: European Livestock Voice|Website “Can we imagine the world without livestock?”| Article In Defense of Meat | Book
Debunking Myths: Andrea Bertaglio on the Role of Leather and Livestock in Sustainability
Andrea Bertagliois an independent journalist, spokesperson for European Livestock Voice and author of the book “In defence of Meat”. He is known for his in-depth knowledge of the meat industry and is therefore perfectly placed to give insight into the importance of livestock and leather sectors, their crucial roles in the circular economy, and their joint challenges in times of greenwashing.
Answering the question on the relationship between animal livestock and humans, Andrea Bertaglio said: “Humankind and livestock have been proceeding together since the dawn of time. Meat made us humans. Without animal foods, we couldn’t develop our brains as they are. Without hunting, we couldn’t have organized our first ways of communication and our first kind of communities and societies. And if we speak about modern farming, we speak of nutrition, culture, traditions, know-how, economy, and hundreds of other things. Livestock is an incredibly important part of human life, and I hope it can still be like that for a very long time”. Answering the question on the relationship between animal livestock and humans,
The same is true for leather, which has long been in the history of man. Findings from the archaeological site in Schöningen (Lower Saxony ) show that it dates back 320 000 years. An engraving was found on the remains of a bear’s skin, which evidences that hominids in northern Europe also hunted bears and skinned them to get meat and to use their hide to protect themselves from the cold. Leather features in human history.
“We have leather because it is a by-product from meat production. And it has been like that since prehistorical times, I suppose. One of the best and oldest examples of “circular economy”. It simply makes sense. Otherwise, it would be like picking a fruit only to keep the peel, which is absurd. Besides, leather is a great product: instead of being disposed of as waste, hides and skins are transformed into one of the most durable, enjoyable, and sustainable products ever”, the journalist continued.
“Leather is the most bio-friendly in the car and is the most natural, sustainable, environmentally good by-product of the meat industry. The cows are not being grown for their leather”, – says nutritionist Diana Rodgers
Furthermore, leather is a natural material that can be repaired, reused, and repurposed, highlighting its crucial role in the circular economy and establishing it as a prime choice for sustainable practices.
Despite these facts, both the leather and meat industries are facing a wave of unjustified accusations and manipulations from radical activist, vegan societies, whose deceptive narratives are likely to fall into the scope of the upcoming EU “Green Claims” Directive.
As an independent journalist, writing nearly two decades on environment and sustainability, Andrea Bertaglio has a mission: to crash the fake, dangerous, hypocritical narrative of the vegan world.
Reflecting on his daily motivation, he told VDL, the association for the German leather industry and COTANCE member: “I am highly motivated by the fact that vegan/animal rights activism is one of the biggest frauds we have seen in many years: they paint in green and give an ethical message to things which are only and merely based on profit. I am disturbed by the good faith of many people in the hands of cunning corporations. Playing the victim while making loads of money is very trendy at the moment, and I try my best to fight this”.
He says many people adopt a vegan lifestyle with noble intentions, seeking a holistic approach to improving the environment, animal welfare, and personal health. “The vegan narrative is perfect because it puts environment, climate, animals, and health together, providing a prepacked, easy solution, emphasizing the benefits of choosing plant-based options which may include some commercially processed alternatives. They fell into the trap of very clever marketing” . However, he expresses concern that individuals might eventually reconsider their choices as they evaluate the long-term impacts of their dietary and lifestyle decisions on their health.
He further says: “Not everyone knows that to grow synthetic meat, its cells must be in a soup of growth hormones and antibiotics (yes, those banned and extremely reduced in animal breeding!). Not only that, but according to some studies, lab-grown meat can impact up to 50 times more than livestock farming, and to be produced, it must be grown in extremely energy-intensive bioreactors. For now, it is just another way to generate audiences, debate and polarization. It is no coincidence that many newspaper articles have been written about this product, but very few scientific papers”.
The same can be said about “vegan leather”, whose adverse impact on the environment starts to become visible. “Vegan leather,” commonly known as “faux leather,” is essentially plastic derived from fossil fuels, contributing significantly to climate change and ecosystem pollution. Attempts to reduce the amount of plastic, mixing it partly with agricultural produce or waste, resulted in a significant amount of these products becoming non-recyclable textile waste due to their reliance on polyurethane binders and coatings (plastic).
Such fakes quickly decompose into microplastic. Consumers need to know that more durable and sustainable options exist, like leather.
Remember: animals are not killed for leather. Their skins & hides represent on average just 1% of the animal’s economic value. Leather is just the result of a by-product of the meat industry. European Tanners transform hides & skins into sustainable fashion materials, generating wealth and jobs in Europe. That means opting for leather helps upcycle a resource that would otherwise go to waste.
The world is not black and white. Don’t become a victim of manipulating narratives that might make you feel neurotic and guilty. Make your own choices based on the evidence.
Regardless of your choice, the fact remains that leather is one of the smartest and most sustainable options a person should promote… even if you are vegan.
Edited by
In cooperation with
If you want to go further: European Livestock Voice|Website “Can we imagine the world without livestock?”| Article In Defense of Meat | Book
The event attracted around 100 on-site attendees and marked the end of a successful, EU-funded social dialogue project between the European social partners as well as national representatives from Spain (ACEXPIEL), Portugal (APIC), France (FFTM), Hungary (MKZS), Italy (UNIC), Germany (VDL), and Austria (FVTBSL).
Additionally, the project unveiled findings on the carbon footprint of leather in the “Carbon Footprint of European Bovine Leather” study, presented at the Final Conference in Brussels on May 16. Both studies highlighted the industry’s environmental and social credentials, providing tanneries with guidance to enhance their sustainability.
Additionally, the project unveiled findings on the carbon footprint of leather in the “Carbon Footprint of European Bovine Leather” study, presented at the Final Conference in Brussels on May 16. Both studies highlighted the industry’s environmental and social credentials, providing tanneries with guidance to enhance their sustainability.
Tannery-related accidents in EU countries surveyed (Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Portugal, Hungary, and Austria) declined by 16%, from 1,317 in 2019 to 1,102 in 2021.
However, with an incidence rate of 3.2% in 2021, 15% on the way to/from work, and over 90% of recorded accidents being qualified as of “minor” severity, there is still room for improvement.
Safety at the Workplace Study
Judith Kirton-Darling, General Secretary of industriAll European Trade Union said at the Green Deal Leather Final Conference:
“Good occupational health and safety practices in the workplace, with ongoing training and checks, are essential to keep tannery workers safe. Social dialogue is key, and trade unions and workers’ representatives must be able to highlight any issues to management and know that they will be acted on swiftly. These preliminary results are a baseline and now we must work together to achieve zero accidents.”
Calculating leather’s carbon footprint is a complex exercise that requires a thorough understanding of the tanning industry, its processes and products.
The result obtained with the ECO2L method indicates an average of 8kg of CO2 per m2 of bovine leather in EU tannery processes.
This figure can vary based on specific characteristics of the leather, such as thickness and performance requirements. Therefore, since each batch of leather is made to order, customers have the opportunity to influence the eco-design of their leather products.
Excluding the impact of livestock breeding reveals the actual footprint of leather tanning and the importance of chemicals used during the tanning process, but also that replacing one chemical with another that has a lower carbon footprint does not always result in overall improvement.
Carbon Footprint Study
Mr. Manuel Rios, President of COTANCE: “Through the Green Deal Leather project, COTANCE continues to equip European tanners with the tools and intelligence needed to progress towards a more sustainable future. We believe that transparency is key to advancing our social and environmental credentials and dispelling common misconceptions about leather. We are proud to undertake this journey hand in hand with our social partners.”
The Final Conference of the GDL project showcased the work and achievements of the social partners, who, in these last two years, have gathered and produced data that will greatly benefit the tanning and leather sector globally. By working together in social dialogue, the European leather industry produces tools and intelligence which contribute to worker safety, protect the environment, and promote sustainable, high-quality leather, supporting millions of jobs worldwide.
The Final Conference of the GDL project showcased the work and achievements of the social partners, who, in these last two years, have gathered and produced data that will greatly benefit the tanning and leather sector globally. By working together in social dialogue, the European leather industry produces tools and intelligence which contribute to worker safety, protect the environment, and promote sustainable, high-quality leather, supporting millions of jobs worldwide.
So, next time you’re deciding between leather and another material, remember that choosing European leather not only offers a high-quality experience that you can enjoy for a long time but also delivers a product crafted with the utmost care for both employees and the environment.
Edited by
In cooperation with
If you want to go further: Green Deal Leather – Final Conference | Press Release EURACTIV about us | Website Brussels Times about us | Website
Today, COTANCE joins the entire world in celebrating Leather!
On April 26, 2024, we come together as an industry to celebrate World Leather Day, honoring leather’s enduring and unique qualities. This year we are focusing on the “Repair, Reuse, Repurpose” theme emphasizing the long-lasting, repairable, and versatile qualities of leather that make it the ideal material for a circular society.
So let’s explore what MORE leather can offer to YOU!
We all understand that choosing leather goes beyond selecting a beautiful and high-quality material that elevates your image and mood – it’s a bold statement to the world.
But there’s even more to it than you might realize. Whether you know it or not, with leather, you opt for a more sustainable, green, and slow-fashion world. By choosing leather, you’re not just selecting comfort and individuality for today; you’re investing in a greener, more sustainable future as leather articles can be easily repaired, reused, and repurposed, making it the best choice for sustainable practices.
Because Leather champions durability, it is natural that we keep REUSING it.
– Choosing leather allows you to REUSE it, meaning re-wearing your leather footwear naturally season after season. And if issues like worn heels or soles arise, you can have them repaired quickly and affordably in just one day at your local shoe repair workshop.
– Choosing leather allows you to REUSE it by passing your cherished leather item over from generation to generation. Think of your father’s leather briefcase, a symbol of his hard work and dedication, or the leather couch you took from home when moving into your first apartment. Quality vintage items like this never go out of fashion.
– and of course, choosing leather brings economic advantages. Extending the life of leather items means we shop less and save money (just shared one of the secrets of wealth – no need to thank us 🙂 )
For more inspiration on leather’s longevity and versatility visit the world’s first-ever digital exhibition “It’s a Long Story” by Leather Naturally.
Because Leather is aging gracefully, it’s remarkably simple to REPAIR it.
When you repair your leather goods, you breathe new life into your favorite items, deepening the connection between you and the goods that are part of your personal story. Just as we strive to repair relationships rather than end them, fixing leather enhances its longevity and value.
Watch the Alliance France Cuir demonstration on how nice and beneficial it is to repair your leather items. Well, if a leather bag survived a 476 kg metal band saw cutting at 100 meters per minute, imagine how well it can withstand everyday wear and tear!
Or explore the 120-year-old craftsmanship of the BootRepair Company and be amazed by the heritage behind each repair. So then next time, instead of buying a new pair of shoes, consider repairing them or treating them to a leather spa experience.
Remember, by repairing your leather items, you not only reduce waste and save money but also strengthen the bond with your personal belongings.
Because leather is a very supple material, it is extremely easy to REPURPOSE it.
Leather belts can be creatively repurposed into carry bags, camera straps, stylish dog collars, or personalized bracelets. Leather wallets can be transformed into durable ties for gardening or workshops, chic pulls for DIY furniture, or elegant bookmarks.
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And it’s not just individuals who are doing this; brands like Hermès are championing the reinvention of everyday objects using leather leftovers and other materials, in their Petit h atelier. They forge surprising connections between artists and craftsmen, creating new alliances between expertise and natural materials. Why not join the movement?
To start with, get inspired with Nquart‘s step-by-step leather crafting guides and create your own exclusive, personalised leather items. Enjoy each stage of this creative process – give it a try and have fun!
The leather has so much to offer! Beyond being beautiful, natural, and durable, leather articles can be easily repaired, reused, and repurposed, making it the best choice for sustainable practices. By extending the life of leather goods, we minimize waste, reduce landfill use, and lessen environmental impact.
If leather isn’t one of the best sustainable investment decisions, we don’t know what is!
Agree? Help us spread the word to have more people celebrate the versatility and sustainability of leather!
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If you want to go further: Green Deal Leather – Final Conference |Website Alliance France Cuir | Website Leather Naturally | Webwebsite
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