• FOOD BY-PRODUCT

    Our leather is a by-product of the food industry that is upcycled, preventing tons of millions of waste each year and making efficient use of materials that would otherwise go to waste with huge environmental and biological impact. It is important to note that no animals are solely raised for the purpose of producing leather. By utilizing hides and skins, we can minimize the need for additional resources and reduce waste.

  • LONG LASTING

    Good leather ages well and lasts. Our leather products are renowned for their durability and longevity. This longevity means that leather goods need to be replaced less frequently, which ultimately reduces consumption and waste. For example, full grain, aniline-dyed leather with small amounts of pigment in the finish can outlast fabrics by four to five times.

  • RECYCLABLE

    Our leather is 100% post-consumer recyclable. Leather scraps from any kind of production, including garment, upholstery and accessory, can be repurposed into new items or creations. At United Leather, we actively contribute to sustainability by offering a scrap bin. This allows our customers to conveniently purchase leather scraps, including those used for sampling purposes.

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OUR COMMITMENT

Since United Leather’s founding 40 years ago, we have been committed to sourcing the finest quality leather, working with our tanneries diligently to ensure that the materials we provide are sustainable and ethically developed from start to finish.

ZERO-WASTE INITIATIVE

The Zero-Waste Initiative is a commitment that the United Leather team stands by to promote sustainable leather practices and leather recycling. Our team has listed some ways we recycle our leather in house as well as how you can recycle your own leather, post production.


What does United Leather do to reduce waste?
Turn scraps into swatches
Sell scraps in-house
Use scraps for client sampling


What can I make with my scraps?
Key Straps
Wallets
Belts
Coasters
Jewelry
Leather patchwork

OUR CERTIFICATIONS

From the very start, United Leather has made the conscious effort to strictly partner with tanneries who use the most innovative tanning practices and certifications. Our tanneries are held to the highest sustainability standards with third-party testing and innovative practices. Below is a list of our tannery certifications.

Leather Working Group provides and maintains a protocol that assesses the environmental compliance and performance capabilities of leather manufacturers through its audit standards. The certification was developed to promote the highest practice in environmental, social, and governance considerations.

The ICEC certification evaluates various aspects of production processes, including environmental sustainability, health and safety and product quality. It focuses on minimizing the environmental impact, improving working conditions and ensuring product quality.

Leather Standard by OEKO-TEX is a global testing and certification system for leather and leather goods at all production levels. The certification supports companies along the supply chain with the implementation of high human-ecological product safety

The Brazilian Leather Certification of Sustainability applies the tripod of sustainability concept in which a tanning industry’s results are considered in economic, environmental and social terms, including better working conditions for their employees.

Sustainable Leather Foundation works across the full value chain from farm to product. At its heart is the SLF Transparency Dashboard™ that gives both customers and consumers an instant visual of sustainability performance across the pillars of Environmental, Social and Governance.