Leather has been a popular material for ages, used for everything from clothing to furniture. But is it ethical to buy leather products? Does ethical leather even exist? Leather has increasingly (and rightfully) come under scrutiny due to concerns about animal welfare, environmental impact, and labor practices. So it makes sense to look into how to buy ethical leather.
This can be a challenge, as there are many factors to think about. Some key considerations include the source of the leather, the treatment of animals, the use of chemicals in the tanning process, and the working conditions of those involved in production. In this post, we provide some guidance to help you make informed choices that align with your values.
Understand the Term ‘Ethical Leather’
When it comes to buying leather products, we need to first understand (and agree on) what ‘ethical leather’ means. For this post, the term refers to leather that has been produced in a way that is sustainable, environmentally friendly, and socially responsible. This includes factors such as:
1 / Animal Welfare
Ethical leather should come from animals that have been treated humanely and raised in a way that respects their lives and promotes their well-being.
2 / Environmental Impact
The production of ethical leather should not harm the environment, including the use of toxic chemicals in the tanning process.
3 / Social Responsibility
Ethical leather should be produced in a way that is fair to workers and supports local communities.
The frustrating thing is that there is no official certification or standard for ethical leather, so it’s up to us consumers to do our research and make informed choices when purchasing leather products.
What to Look for in Ethical Leather?
Here are some things to consider:
1 / Look for transparency
Companies that produce ethical leather should be transparent about their sourcing and production methods. Look for information about where the leather comes from and how it was produced.
2 / Choose quality over quantity
Investing in high-quality, ethically produced leather products can be more expensive, but they will last longer and have a smaller environmental impact over time.
3 / Consider alternatives
If you’re not comfortable buying leather, there are a variety of alternative materials available, such as vegan leather or recycled materials.
Ultimately, this is the truth: buying ethical leather requires doing research and a willingness to pay more for quality products. The benefit is that by making thoughtful, informed choices, we can all support sustainable and socially responsible practices in the leather industry.
Research the Brand or Company
When looking for ethical leather products, it is important to research the brand or company that you are considering purchasing from. Here are a few things to keep in mind when conducting your research:
1 / Transparency
Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chain and manufacturing process. This includes information about where the leather comes from, how it is tanned, who is involved in the production process, how they are compensated, etc.
2 / Certifications
Top certifications can provide assurance that the brand is committed to ethical and sustainable practices. Here are some certifications to look for:
| Certification | Description |
| Leather Working Group (LWG) | The LWG is an independent group that assesses the environmental compliance and performance capabilities of leather manufacturers. Look for leather that is produced by tanneries that have been LWG certified. |
| Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | The GOTS certification ensures that the leather is produced using organic and sustainable practices, and is free from harmful chemicals. |
| bluesign | The bluesign certification ensures that the leather is produced with minimal impact on the environment, and is free from harmful chemicals. |
Now, while certifications are a good indicator of ethical leather, they are not the only factor to consider. We need to research the company’s overall sustainability practices and to look for transparency in their supply chain.
When shopping for ethical leather, take the time to find out where the leather is manufactured and its rating in terms of sustainability. The Leather Working Group (LWG), which is a comprehensive auditing process done at the manufacturing facility, is a reasonable starting-point guide to the company’s ethics.
3 / Reviews
This might be the best indicator of all. Reviews from other customers and organizations give a good, objective sense of the brand’s reputation. Read the reviews on the brand’s website, or on third-party websites and social media platforms, before you make up your mind!
No brand is perfect when it comes to ethical and sustainable practices. However, some brands are (much) more responsible and ethical than others, and by doing our research and choosing brands that are committed to making a positive impact, we can make the best choices for people, the animals and the environment.
Consider Secondhand or Vintage Options
The most ethical option if you want to buy leather is to purchase secondhand or vintage items. Not only are you reducing the demand for new leather products, but you are also giving new life to an existing item that may otherwise end up in the landfill. Plus, you might find a unique, arty piece that isn’t available in any store!
Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for secondhand or vintage leather:
- Inspect the item carefully for any damage or wear and tear. Buy only if it is in good condition and will last you for a few years at least.
- Check for any odors or stains that may be difficult to remove. Easy stains can be removed at home, and you can easily clean thrift store leather to make it almost like new.
- Finally, do you like the style and design of the item? Is it something you will wear often? Will it fit with your personal style? Will you maintain it well?
Remember that the item may have some unique characteristics or imperfections that add to its charm. These imperfections are what make the item more affordable as well, so it’s a win-win situation!
Another option is to purchase from local artisans or craftsmen who specialize in creating handmade leather items. This not only supports small businesses but also ensures that the leather is ethically sourced and produced.
This post was about buying ethical leather
Buying ethical leather is a personal choice that requires careful consideration of various factors. It is essential to understand the potential impact of your purchase on the environment, animal welfare, and the people involved in the production process.
If you prefer vegan leather, look for materials made from natural, sustainable, and biodegradable sources such as pineapple leaves, cork, or apple peels. But, keep in mind that vegan leather alternatives are not always environmentally friendly and may have a significant carbon footprint.
The key to buying ethical leather, ultimately, is to be mindful of your purchasing decisions, do your research, and support brands and products that align with your values and beliefs.
If you liked this post, please share it with your friends. Thank you!<3
THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE DETAILS.
NOTE: All brand photographs belong to the respective brands/businesses.
All reviews included in this post are verified reviews taken from the respective brand websites.
Leave a Reply