LEATHER
Leather is a material made from animal skin. There are different types of leather: domestic leather, woolly skin and exotic leather. It is a water resistant material, widely used in bags, shoes, clothing and furniture. This material is known for its quality because it is strong and durable.
IS IT ECO-RESPONSIBLE?
In general, leather is a polluting material. Some industries practice breeding for the sole purpose of producing leather, especially exotic reptile leather. The ecological impact depends on the origin of the leather and the tanning process which requires chemical solvents that are harmful to the planet.
Plant-based leather is a more environmentally friendly alternative but still raises concerns about the water-intensive farming process, which is responsible for about 20% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES?
Second hand is the best alternative to reduce leather production. Recycled leather is also a more ecological alternative.
We must be careful with the alternative of "vegan leather" which is not really leather. This material requires a colossal production of plastic.