Heidemann lecture focuses on collagen and upcycling – IULTCS Congress
09/09/2025
Dr Tegtmeyer explored the fundamental role of collagen in leather making and urged the industry to broaden its focus beyond traditional production processes. He said the theoretical market potential for upcycled by-products from leather production could be worth as much as $680 million per year.
He argued that the scope of the modern tannery must include upcycling activities as part of a strategy to achieve zero waste. To achieve this, he suggested that tanners adopt new steps to separate fats from proteins and integrate upcycling into routine operations.
Dr Tegtmeyer encouraged the industry to look to the meat and rendering sectors, which have already moved towards zero-waste models, as a source of inspiration. He expressed hope that a comprehensive upcycling concept could be implemented across the leather sector within the next decade.
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