Recent research by Leather Naturally confirms that there is still a noticeable trend in society that shows a lack of knowledge about the leather industry and industry. Education is a very important element of taking an active part in the global environmental campaign! In particular, if we represent the industry, and - as in the case of the Europell Group - if we are also producers of natural leather, we should loudly and often cultivate this knowledge supported by facts and research. Below are some facts and myths from the very center of the industry!
Truth!
Artificial substitutes have been entering the market more and more boldly for some time, always adopting a marketing narrative oscillating around ecology. Unfortunately, but ultimately having nothing to do with ecological approach or ecological products! Artificial leather is made by using a fabric covered with a layer of plasticized polyvinyl chloride. It is also worth stopping here and taking a closer look at alternatives signed with the names "pineapple skin", "avocado skin" or other plants. Each of the new options sounds beautiful and is advertised in the same way, but it is nothing else than artificial leather with the addition (usually a few percent) of a given plant. These products - both classic artificial leather and "vegan" alternatives, are non-biodegradable and do not come from recycling. They are unstable and airtight. In a word - they are not ecological.
Myth!
During research on water consumption by individual branches of industry, in the case of leather, the overall process was taken into account. Thus, the figure of 16,458 liters also contains the water needed to grow the grass that the animal intended for slaughter for meat feeds on, and the overall amount of water that is necessary for the life of the animal. Leather waste, which the leather industry refines, requires only 60 to 200 liters per square meter of leather.
Moreover, it is worth noting the importance the leather industry attaches to the infrastructure that is to support production in line with the closed water cycle. In each tannery, special filters and installations are installed, thanks to which the water used, for example, for cleaning salty mud, is filtered and returned back to the ironing devices.
Truth!
With up-to-date knowledge of ecology, we cannot afford to support harmful solutions. The first produced plastic bag has not yet had time to unfold, indeed! It will exist somewhere in the environment for a long time - at the bottom of the sea or buried somewhere in one of the many landfills.
Natural leather, especially the vegetable-tanned and chrome-free leather, is 100% biodegradable and safe for the environment. The decomposition of natural leather takes from 50 to 100 years. However, what makes natural leather truly ecological is the fact that the products covered with it are long-lasting. Over the years, they take on character and become ennobled. Therefore, with proper maintenance, you will not need to replace or repair them frequently.
Myth!
There is no cattle farm in the world where animals are specially bred for skin. World organizations take great care that this branch of the industry works with all necessary certificates and rules. It should be made very clear: skin is the waste left over from slaughtering cattle for meat. As long as people eat meat, the leather industry will refine the remaining skin.
Truth!
Due to its natural origin, skin - compared to, for example, fabric - is hypoallergenic. Moreover, it does not absorb odors and dust - so it is especially recommended for allergy sufferers. People who are looking for durable solutions to their options - due to the presence of animals or children, will also be pleased with a leather sofa or even with such a fresh trend as leather wall panels. Natural leather, preserved, cared for with appropriate specialist repair and cleaning agents, will repay us with many years of great appearance and comfort.
