Leather is made from the hides of animals, most commonly cows, goats, or pigs. As a co-product of the meat industry, it utilises a by‑product that might otherwise go to waste, potentially reducing the overall environmental footprint of animal agriculture.

Traceability across the supply chain is essential to ensure high standards of animal welfare and to understand the farming practices behind the hides. The environmental impact can vary widely: regenerative agriculture, which supports soil health, biodiversity, and carbon sequestration, offers clear benefits over conventional systems.

The tanning process, which preserves and softens hides, also has a significant impact. Most leather is produced using chromium-based tanning, which employs toxic chromium salts that can contaminate water sources and harm tannery workers and nearby communities, particularly in regions with weak environmental and labour protections. Alternative methods, such as vegetable tanning or chrome‑free processes, use natural or less hazardous substances, greatly reducing water pollution and chemical risks, though these techniques remain less common at scale.

When produced responsibly, using ethical farming practices, safe tanning methods, and strong environmental safeguards, leather can be a long-lasting material: it is durable, repairable, and, when left untreated, biodegradable.