International Leather Industry calls on COP28 to recognise the positive role that natural materials such as leather, can have on people, lives, and livelihoods
20 October 2023 – COTANCE, along with 27 other international leather industry organizations, again called on the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) to recognise the positive impact of natural materials such as leather on people, lives, and livelihoods and as a means of directly mitigating climate impact. Expanding on previous messages sent to COP meeting, The “Leather Manifesto,” highlights to the COP28 delegates capacity for leather and other natural materials, to make the best use of the resources available and to do so without diminishing them or causing harm to the environment.
“Leather manufacture can create opportunities for employment, wealth generation and security in deprived regions, both directly and in associated industries.” the Leather Manifesto states. “Greater use of natural materials would create jobs, reduce waste and could be a direct driver of more sustainable agricultural practice.”
The Manifesto further notes that leather is an ideal choice for a sustainable future, encouraging re-use and slow-fashion. The leather industry once again calls for appropriate measures of environmental impact such as LCA, taking full account of all aspects of the production of any material and the promotion of durable products, and items that can be used many times, repaired and refurbished.
“Leather is the best component for beautiful durable products to be used by more than one owner, that can be repaired or refurbished prolonging its service life and that biodegrades at its end of life.” says Gustavo Gonzalez-Quijano, Secretary General of COTANCE, the European leather industry body.