Sustainable Water Management in the Leather Industry
The importance of water to leather production
Water is the lifeblood of leather making; it imparts softness to hides, carries the formulations that transform raw material into lasting quality, and shapes the character of every finished leather product. More than just an input resource, water is a strategic priority for the leather industry.The leather-making process relies heavily on water, but it faces mounting challenges due to water scarcity, quality concerns, and climate change. As global temperatures increase and droughts become more frequent and severe, the availability of freshwater is strained, especially in regions where leather processing and raw material sourcing take place. This situation could threaten both operations and communities.By adopting sustainable water management practices, the leather industry can reduce its environmental impact, enhance long-term resilience, and support global water security, transforming a critical risk into a shared opportunity for positive change.
Leather Naturally’s Sustainable Water Management Guide
To highlight water’s essential role in leather-making and its link to environmental sustainability and climate resilience, Leather Naturally published its Sustainable Water Management in the Leather Industry guide.The publication aims to provide more detailed information on the topic, providing stakeholders in the leather value chain with the knowledge and tools to understand, interpret, and work together on sustainable water management.The guide draws on insights from a Life Cycle Assessment study conducted by Leather Naturally, supported technically by SPIN360, as well as from case studies submitted by key global stakeholders.The guide is designed for leather industry professionals, sustainability leaders, suppliers, brands, and policymakers aiming to deepen their understanding of water’s role in tannery operations and how it can be managed more sustainably.
The basis for sustainable water management
You can only manage what you measure. Sustainable water management in tannery operations starts with a clear understanding of key metrics, transparent reporting, and consistent comparative analysis. Leather Naturally’s guide highlights the essential metrics, reporting frameworks, and data-driven insights that form the basis of sustainable water management practices across the leather sector.
