Leather

Leather is a durable, flexible material created by tanning animal hides and skins to prevent decomposition. The most common sources are cattle (cowhide), though leather is also made from sheep, goats, pigs, horses, and exotic animals. The tanning process transforms raw hides into stable material that resists bacterial decay while maintaining flexibility - this can be achieved through vegetable tanning (using plant-based tannins, a slower traditional method producing firmer leather), chrome tanning (using chromium salts, faster and producing softer leather but involving toxic chemicals), or alternative methods.

For plastic-free living, leather offers superior durability compared to synthetic alternatives - a quality leather bag, belt, or shoe can last 20-30+ years with proper care, far outlasting plastic-based "vegan leather" (typically polyurethane) that degrades within 2-5 years and sheds microplastics.

Footwear: Shoes, boots, sandals, dress shoes, work boots, shoe components (soles, insoles)

Bags & Accessories: Handbags, wallets, belts, briefcases, backpacks, luggage

Clothing: Jackets, coats, pants, gloves, hats, vests

Furniture: Sofas, chairs, upholstery, cushions, ottomans

Microplastic Concerns: Genuine leather does not shed microplastics. It is natural animal hide that biodegrades completely into organic matter.

Chemical Safety: Leather safety depends heavily on tanning method. Chrome-tanned leather, which comprises of most commercially-produced leather, uses chromium salts that can contain trace amounts of hexavalent chromium a known carcinogen. Vegetable-tanned leather on the other hand uses natural tannins from tree bark (oak, chestnut, mimosa) and is chemical-free, making it the safest option for both consumers and workers.

Certifications to Look For: Leather Working Group (LWG) certification ensures environmental and chemical management standards (though still allows chrome tanning). OEKO-TEX Leather Standard ensures no harmful substances. Cradle to Cradle certification for sustainable leather. European REACH compliance limits harmful chemicals. Vegetable-tanned designation for chemical-free processing. Organic certification for leather from organically raised animals.

Recommendations: Choose vegetable-tanned leather whenever possible - it's chemical-free, biodegradable, and safer for workers and environment. For items in direct skin contact (watch straps, belts, shoe insoles), vegetable-tanned leather eliminates concerns about chromium or formaldehyde exposure.