Clothing - Leather

Leather is considered a by-product because it comes from animals slaughtered for human consumption. The hides can be transformed into a wide variety of different consumer goods. The tanner recycles the hide and turns it into a product. Demand for the tanned hide depends on and fluctuates with fashion. The price is also a regulatory factor, the greater the scarcity of leather, the higher the price and this usually means more demand for synthetics.

In Spain there is no tradition of tanning pig skin, whereas there is a tradition of tanning beef cattle hides, the reasons for this are twofold. Firstly, part of the pig’s skin is sold as part of the meat, secondly, farm pigs that have been fattened up in captivity and have been fed pellets have very week skin which will not withstand the mechanical tanning process.

The preparation of hides in the slaughterhouse includes separating them from the carcass (dislocation), removal of the flesh, trimming, selection and classification, storage and transportation. Sometimes the removal of the flesh and trimming are done before preservation. Once this process is finished the hides are taken to the tannery where the tanning is done.

• At FAADA we raise awareness and create educational material about the problems regarding the use of animal hides, furs and feathers.

• Share what you know about the problems associated with using animal skins and feathers with your friends and family. Tell them about the conditions that those animals have to live in, the suffering they endure and the alternatives available.
• Never buy clothes or accessories made of leather, fur, etc. As well as any other item (rugs, sofas, etc.) made of animal skin. It is always a good idea to check the label or ask before buying. There are several synthetic alternatives which keep you warm at cold temperatures, and they are lightweight and don’t involve the unjust killing of animals.
• Read the labels of products with leather trimmings. If it does not state clearly its origin and you cannot be sure, don’t buy it. Don’t think that just because it is cheap it will be synthetic. The sales staff always know whether or not the leather or fur is real, ask them - to be on the safe side.
• Demand leather shops to stop selling leather, or at least separate authentic leather products from the synthetic leather ones, and clearly state its origin.
• If you receive catalogues from companies selling leather and fur goods, express your rejection politely but clearly.
• If you have leather or fur products, take them to an animal refuge so that they are used to keep the young warm.