Is Wearing Leather Bad? Why It May Be More Eco-Friendly Than You Think

For years now, we have been told that vegan leather is the way to go when it comes to our purses, shoes, even pants, if that's your thing (I personally think they are super cool, but I also mentally live in the 70s). As it turns out, vegan leather may not be as environmentally friendly as originally thought.

Firstly, it is important to understand that leather is a byproduct of the meat industry. Cows are raised for their meat, and their hides are a byproduct that would otherwise go to waste. By using these hides to create leather products, we are making use of a material that would otherwise be discarded.

Furthermore, leather is a durable material that can last for many years. This means that leather products can be used for a long time before needing to be replaced. In contrast, synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are often used for clothing and accessories, but are not biodegradable and contribute to the growing issue of textile waste.

Additionally, leather can be produced using eco-friendly and sustainable practices. Some companies use vegetable-tanned leather, which is tanned using natural plant-based materials instead of harmful chemicals. This reduces the environmental impact of the leather production process.

Some manufacturers are now using leather from animals that have been raised using regenerative agriculture practices. This means that the animals are raised in a way that supports the health of the soil, which can help to sequester carbon and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Of course, there are still environmental concerns associated with the leather industry. The production of leather can be resource-intensive, and there are concerns about the treatment of animals in the meat industry. However, it is important to recognize that leather can be produced in a way that is more eco-friendly than many other materials.

Wearing leather may not be as bad for the environment as some people think. By using a byproduct of the meat industry, leather is a material that would otherwise go to waste. Additionally, leather products can be long-lasting and can be produced using sustainable and eco-friendly practices. While there are still environmental concerns associated with the leather industry, it is worth considering the potential eco-friendly benefits of using leather products.