Masterclass: Biodegradability of Leather

Let’s talk Biodegradability

• Can a leather bag, a leather shoe or a leather chair be biodegradable?
• What is the difference between biodegradability and compostability?
• What test methods should be used for biodegradability?

There are many questions about biodegradability. And, at the same time, quite some uncertainties. On 25 February, during our Biodegradability Masterclass, we have shared our knowledge about biodegradability – inclusive test results – and provide clarity and transparency in facts, figures and chemistry behind leather biodegradability.

The masterclass has taken place! Of course you can also, if you have not done yet, download our whitepaper.

Watch the replay of the masterclass.

From hide to shoe. How can leather stay biodegradable?

A natural and unprocessed hide is biodegradable. To use a hide or a skin for a leather item, for example for a car seat or a handbag, it needs to be processed. This process is called the tanning process. What does this tanning process do with the biodegradability and compostability of the leather good? We will discuss this question and more!

For who?

Everybody who wants to learn about Biodegradability is welcome to join. In specific this Masterclass is very valuable for:

• Fashion, textile, automotive, aviation, furniture, shoes & leather goods brands
• Leather technicians and manufactures
• Designers
• Tanneries
• OEM’s

Are you ready to make the leather value chain more sustainable? Let’s get the conversation started! Participation is free of charge.

Your speakers

The Masterclass will be hosted by Wouter Hendriksen (R&D Manager, Nera) and Hans van Haarst (CEO, Smit & Zoon). Ellen De Waele is our moderator and will ensure that as many questions as possible will be answered. We are pleased to announce that Iris van Wanrooij from EMMA Safety Shoes will join the panel.

As R&D manager for Nera, together with a broad variety of specialist, Wouter focusses on bringing sustainable innovations from vision to reality. In this process product quality, performance and a positive impact for the entire leather value leather chain are the driving forces. This goes much further than engineering new chemistry, it involves understanding and answering to the needs of tanneries, brands and the end consumer.

Ellen is an accomplished presenter and passionate actress. She knows better than anyone how to transport the audience with her spontaneity and smile. She has proven several times that she feels comfortable speaking to knowledgeable groups. She lives with only one goal: Do it with passion or not at all.

As Program Manager Corporate Social Responsibility, Iris is responsible for the sustainability program for EMMA Safety Footwear. EMMA has been affiliated with the Swedish multinational Hultafors Group since last year. The sustainability program includes good working conditions and minimal risks for people and the environment in the supply chain, a sustainable shoe collection, our own factory with the lowest possible CO₂ emissions and the recycling of worn safety shoes.

Hans van Haarst, a Chemical Engineer by education is the CEO of Smit & Zoon Group. Before joining Smit & Zoon he progressed his international career in the chemical industry with several blue chip companies in leadership and management positions. His view on business strategy is anchored in the principles of Purpose, People, Planet and Profit and he leads his organisation accordingly. The inception and development of the newly introduced Smit tanning solution is based on these same principles.