24 October 2024
Leather Working Group (LWG) and Leather Naturally announce that a combined data submission done by SPIN360 from their respective Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies has been adopted as a new average for bovine leather by the Higg Materials Sustainability Index (Higg MSI).
The new dataset, included in the October 2024 update of the Higg MSI, results in the environmental impacts of bovine leather being between 55% and 67% lower than the previous MSI value for leather. The Global Warming Potential, which previously showed an impact of 36.8 points on the Higg MSI scale, is reduced by 60% to 14.6 points. This significant shift advances real change, promoting a more nuanced understanding of bovine leather as a sustainable material choice.
This comprehensive effort was conducted by SPIN360, utilising data collected from 45 manufacturing facilities across 18 countries and evaluated 92 leather products with the intention of providing a global representation of bovine leather. It encompassed key leather end-use sectors, including footwear, automotive, leather goods, and upholstery.
At Leather Working Group, we regard transparency as fundamental to fostering meaningful progress in the leather industry. Our collaboration with Leather Naturally reflects this commitment, and we are proud to see our combined Life Cycle Assessment data integrated into the Higg MSI update. This milestone underscores the significant advancements in sustainable leather production and reaffirms our dedication to responsible industry practices.
Categories: News, Environmental Impact