Unveiling the Truth Behind Leather’s Sustainable Credentials
Australia’s leather industry is inviting critics to take a closer look at the sustainable aspects of leather production, with World Leather Day serving as the perfect opportunity to do so. This year’s theme, Beyond the Surface, aims to delve deeper into the transparency, sustainability, and longevity of leather production. Australia’s leather industry is a significant contributor to the nation’s economy, with the export industry worth almost $600 million. The Australian Hide Skin and Leather Exporters Association (AHSLEA) represents the major exporters of Australian cattle hides, calf skins, sheep and lamb skins, kangaroo skins, and goat skins. The association’s members work tirelessly to ensure that their products meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
The Benefits of Sustainable Leather Production
Sustainable leather production is a crucial aspect of the industry, with the Australian Hide Skin and Leather Exporters Association (AHSLEA) taking a proactive approach to address growing concerns around transparency, environmental compliance, and supply chain management. The association’s Sustainability Framework, launched late last year, reinforces its commitment to meeting rising global expectations for ethical and traceable leather. •
- Saves about eight million cattle hides and over 26 million sheep, goat, and kangaroo skins from landfill every year
- Reduces the environmental impact of leather production through responsible sourcing and supply chain management
- Committed to meeting rising global expectations for transparency, environmental compliance, and supply chain management
Leadership in Sustainable Practices
Australia is setting a global benchmark in leather transparency and environmental compliance. The country’s leather industry is renowned for its quality and has been saving about eight million cattle hides and over 26 million sheep, goat, and kangaroo skins from landfill every year. The association’s commitment to sustainability has been recognized globally, with many countries looking to Australia as a model for responsible leather production. AHSLEA executive director Dennis King said,
“Australia is setting a global benchmark in leather transparency and environmental compliance. With growing expectations around transparency, both local and global markets now look closely at environmental performance, supply chains, and workplace standards – many of which are now subject to stricter regulations. Our industry is committed to long-term sustainability and is actively responding to evolving market expectations and consumer concerns.”
Achieving Transparency and Sustainability
The association is working to communicate the industry’s sustainability credentials to both brands and consumers alike. Through its Sustainability Framework, the association has reinforced its commitment to meeting rising global expectations for ethical and traceable leather. The framework aims to ensure that the industry’s products are sourced responsibly and produced in a way that minimizes environmental impact.
| Key Features of the Sustainability Framework | ||
|---|---|---|
| • Responsible sourcing and supply chain management | • Environmental compliance and reduction of environmental impact | • Transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain |
| • Compliance with international standards and regulations | • Continuous monitoring and improvement of sustainability practices | • Education and awareness of sustainability initiatives |
Australia’s Leadership in Sustainable Leather
Australia’s leather industry is a shining example of sustainable practices, with the country’s commitment to transparency, environmental compliance, and supply chain management serving as a model for the global leather industry. The association’s efforts to communicate its sustainability credentials to brands and consumers alike have helped to promote the industry’s reputation as a leader in sustainable practices.
Conclusion
World Leather Day provides an opportunity to shine a light on the sustainable aspects of leather production. By celebrating the industry’s commitment to transparency, sustainability, and longevity, we can promote a more sustainable future for the leather industry. Australia’s leather industry is a beacon of hope for the global leather industry, and its commitment to sustainability serves as a model for responsible leather production.
