Post-covid leather should look at these six areas
The era of covid-19 poses an opportunity to highlight elements that the industry should focus on, according to Egbert Dikkers, global director sustainability for Smit & Zoon, including animal welfare and traceability, audits, zero waste, sustainable design, finance and transparency.
In a recent essay published on the company’s website, Mr Dikkers outlined the importance and potential of each of these elements. In animal welfare and traceability, for example, he said animals that have lived a decent life will have better hide quality, and that traceability — including that of the animal’s welfare — will soon be an industry standard.
Reliable audits are also of great importance, he writes, pointing to resources such as Leather Working Group, Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals and Leather Impact Accelerator. “I kindly invite brands to intensify requesting leather in accordance with the available auditing protocols,” he said. “Leather Naturally can assist you in transparent education and promotion of leather.”
The full essay, which delves into each of the six elements identified, can be found on the company’s website.
Of sustainable design, Mr Dikkers writes: “Leather is just the perfect material for this trend, and it is up to us, chemical companies, leather manufacturers and brands to explore this area in more detail and in collaboration, supporting a future with zero waste and optimum consumer experiences.”
