Industry Animals

Welfare of Animals Used in Traditional Leather Crafts

Hides for artisanal leather often come from animals raised or slaughtered under conditions with little welfare oversight, particularly in low-income countries.

Key Facts

Roughly 1 billion hides are processed globally each year
Cattle in traditional hide supply chains often endure long transport and poor slaughter conditions
Tannery workers and animals in proximity suffer from chemical exposure
Vegetable tanning is more humane and less toxic than chrome tanning
Leather from certified humane farms commands premium prices but represents a tiny fraction of global supply

Welfare Considerations

The welfare of animals in leather supply chains is deeply intertwined with supply chain transparency. Most global leather originates from countries with minimal animal welfare protections, where slaughter conditions and pre-slaughter handling are often poor. Consumers and brands choosing certified humane or alternative materials can create meaningful incentive for improvement throughout the chain.

What You Can Do

Choose leather alternatives or certified humane leather products
Support brands with transparent, audited animal welfare supply chains
Advocate for international leather trade standards that include welfare criteria
Research the sourcing of leather goods before purchase