Scottish Leather Group, the largest leather manufacturer in the United Kingdom, has been rewarded for its commitment to sustainability at this year’s VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards.

Scottish Leather Group was one of ten companies honored, collecting the Management Large award at a ceremony held earlier this month in Glasgow. The announcement followed a rigorous judging process, where each of the 43 finalists were visited by a team of judges to assess their environmental processes.

The ten businesses awarded, which represented a range of sectors and sizes, demonstrated how they had challenged everyday working practices to embrace the environmental, economic and cultural benefits of increased sustainability.

The businesses were awarded under a range of categories including; management (large and small), circular economy, environmental product or service, hydro nation water innovation, green team, innovation, sustainable and active travel and micro business.

The judges praised the following Scottish Leather Group initiatives and working practices:

  • Largest manufacturer of leather in the United Kingdom – producers of Low Carbon Leather
  • Thermal energy plant installed which includes an oil recovery system
  • Reduction in carbon footprint by 90 per cent since 2003
  • Re-use of 40 per cent of waste water saving over £140k per annum
  • Environmental and sustainability policy cascaded throughout the organisation

Dr Warren Bowden, group sustainability director at Scottish Leather Group, said: “We are proud to have been recognised at this year’s VIBES – Scottish Environment Business Awards in the large management category. Collecting a VIBES Award is a real testament to the hard work and commitment from everyone at Scottish Leather Group towards reducing our impact on the environment and we are proud to take our place amongst many excellent companies working hard to deliver a sustainable future.

“The Awards are a fantastic way to find out about what other businesses are doing and share best practice amongst a like-minded community that too want to improve their operations while benefitting the environment and it is hoped that others are inspired to follow suit.”