The circular economy is a sustainable and innovative economic model that seeks to redefine the traditional linear “take, make, dispose” model of production and consumption. Instead, it promotes a system where resources are used for as long as possible, the maximum value is extracted from them while they’re in use, and products and materials are then recovered and regenerated at the end of their useful life.
The circular economy can be visualized as a loop. These are the steps to make that loop as smooth as possible.
Firstly, design out waste and pollution: This starts with the design of products. In a circular economy, products are designed to be durable, easy to repair, and recyclable. Leather comes from a by-product. If not used it would be wasted.
Keep products and materials in use. Create products that last longer, and then find ways to repurpose or recycle them rather than discarding them. This could involve creating sharing platforms, remanufacturing, and recycling.
Regenerate natural systems. Restore and regenerate natural capital, for example, by returning valuable nutrients to the soil or purifying air and water.
Cost savings. By recycling and reusing materials, businesses can reduce procurement costs. Leather as an alternative to forever plastics makes sound ecological sense.
New revenue streams. By repurposing leather, fashion and practical application of leather can be discovered which in turn will find new markets and revenue opportunities.
Innovation. rethinking products and processes can drive innovation and differentiation in the market.
Resilience. A circular approach can make supply chains more resilient by reducing dependency on scarce resources.
Improved brand image. By using leather that would otherwise be wasted we can show commitment to sustainability and enhance a company’s reputation and customer loyalty.
Environmental protection. Using leather we reduce waste, pollution and the depletion of natural resources. In particular the reliance on manmade materials often relies on oil-based products.
Economic growth. Our approach to the circular economy can stimulate economic growth by creating new markets and job opportunities in recycling and remanufacturing.
Resource efficiency. This reduces the need for other natural resources, ensuring they are not wasted.
Societal well-being. By reducing pollution and waste, it can lead to a cleaner environment and improved public health.
Josslyn Shi from California College of Art has been crowned Overall Winner of the Real Leather. Stay Different. International Student Design Competition at a glittering final event held at the U.S. Embassy in London.
Sisay Abebe, born in Addis Abeda, Ethiopia, graduated from Addis Abeba University School of Fine Art and Design in 2008 with a first degree in Industrial Design. The Mursi Tribe, a fascinating ethnic group with a unique way of life, is the inspiration for
As much as he insists his business is market driven, Jay Jensen can’t hide his passion when he talks about wasted cowhides.
While Polestar is a new company which specialises solely in electric cars, Bridge of Weir’s association with the automobile industry goes back to 1911 when, according to company legend, its founder Arthur Muirhead sat down with Henry Ford over whisky and
There aren’t many fashion brands that feel much more trustworthy than German accessories maker Leit & Held, which offers up every aspect of its supply chain to its customers without question.
Subscribe to our newsletter!
Stay different with our monthly roundup, which includes the latest on leather fashion and sustainable features, competition news and more.
