Indian scientists reverse tanning process
A group of scientists at the Central Leather Research Institute in Adyar, India, has been working on developing a more eco-friendly leather tanning process.
Various chemicals are used in order to turn perishable raw hides and skins into durable leather and this can result in high levels of water pollution.
However, the researchers found that by simply reversing the order of the tanning and post-tanning process, and using non chemical-based pre-tanning methods, the volume of chemicals released fell 82%. Furthermore, energy savings of almost 40% were recorded.
Team leader, Raghava Rao, said: "The significance is tremendous in the context of environmental challenges being faced by the leather industry."
"Most importantly, there was no change in quality of the leather was observed when compared with conventional tanning methods."
