In previous articles, we discussed the impact and responsibilities of technology and artificial intelligence within the leather industry and leather goods sector. I initially planned to continue that theme in this article as well, but I felt compelled to write about something more urgent: the truth about “leather” itself. As the grandson and son of leather craftsmen, I wanted to share my thoughts on the internal dynamics of a profession that is, for me, a family heritage.
As we approach 2026, I reflect on a lifetime spent within the leather world. Although I never had the chance to see my grandfather’s tannery—sold when I was only two years old—my father worked in leather garment production from 1987 to 2015. I vividly remember the days spent in our workshop and the years managing our stores. I even designed our company’s logo during my high school years. My passion for science, design, art, and fashion continues to this day.
I normally dislike talking about myself or praising what I’ve done, but I mention these details for a reason: the harsh and often unfair accusations directed at the leather industry.
I absolutely do not want animals to suffer—no ethical person does. Strict animal welfare laws exist across the EU and in many other countries. But it must be understood that cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry are not raised for their skins. They are livestock raised throughout human history for food, forming an integral part of our evolutionary and nutritional path.
Animal husbandry has existed since the transition to agriculture and the establishment of settled societies. Through the Industrial Revolution and now in the age of artificial intelligence, agriculture and livestock remain essential pillars of national economies.
Today, supermarkets in major cities are filled with dairy and meat products. Yet no one speaks about the inevitable by-product of these foods: the hides. Moreover, leather is not only used for fashion or accessories—it is also used in the food industry as the source of collagen supplements and gelatin.
Claiming that animals are “killed for their skins” is not only misleading but also intentionally harmful. Even if industrial meat production did not exist, people would still find ways to consume animal protein, as they always have.
In my view, the responsible approach is to prevent waste by properly utilizing the hides that remain after meat processing—turning them into economic value while avoiding environmental harm. Unfortunately, around 20% of hides globally end up buried in landfills instead of being used. This is the real problem we should be addressing.
The leather sector is undergoing a transformation. Those who carry the mindset of “let nothing go to waste; let the craft survive” will continue this profession with knowledge, experience, and dedication. Yet one major challenge remains: we have failed to communicate the value of this craft to Generation Z.
At a time when petroleum-based plastics and microplastics pose immense threats to our planet, and water scarcity and food security are top global concerns, utilizing an existing by-product such as leather is not only practical—it is environmentally necessary.
I won’t dive into the topic of lab-grown meat here; the future will unfold in its own time. But my personal foresight is this: as long as agriculture and animal husbandry exist, meat and leather will continue to exist.
Thank you for reading.
See you in the next article.
