L&HCA Dialogue Drives Focus on Greener, Smarter Leather Industry

The leather industry’s push towards greener production, improved traceability and more sustainable products took center stage at the L&HCA Leather Sustainability Dialogue, held in Shanghai on September 2.

Hosted by the Leather & Hide Council of America (L&HCA) and co-organized by the China Leather Industry Association (CLIA), the event brought together companies, designers and industry experts from different parts of the leather value chain. Discussions focused on green manufacturing, sustainable design, quality traceability and new ways to improve the environmental performance of the industry.

One of the key topics was the sourcing and quality of raw hides. Alex Luviano, Vice President of Sales at Harland M. Braun & Co., discussed the role of American hides in the global leather supply chain. He noted that the United States exports around 95% of its annual production of raw hides and wet blue, worth $1-2 billion, with major markets including China, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand, Brazil, Italy and Vietnam.

The event also examined the green transformation of China’s leather industry. Huang Yanjie, Deputy Secretary-General of the China Leather Industry Association, outlined the sector’s progress from policy led environmental improvements to practical implementation across the industry.

Technology and cleaner production were also major areas of discussion. Sun Shaojun of Xingye Technology presented the company’s “five-water diversion” pollution control system, which has achieved a greywater reuse rate of more than 30%. He also highlighted low-emission plant coating technology and the role of smart manufacturing in improving production efficiency.

The dialogue also explored new applications for leather, including its use in architectural and interior spaces. Product maintenance was highlighted as another important part of sustainability, as proper care can extend the life of genuine leather products.

Covering the journey from raw hide sourcing to finished products and consumer care, the dialogue highlighted the need for stronger cooperation, technology and innovation to support a greener, smarter and more transparent leather industry.