All articles by Blatha
Blatha
A longway from chrome
Speaking in June at the 7th Freiberg Leather Days conference, Florian Döppert, the head of wet-end screening at TFL Ledertechnik, used his presentation to examine the industry’s choices when it comes to retanning systems for chrome-tanned and chrome-free leather. As he tells Ross Davies, we need to think outside the box.
Under the microscope
The following is an edited excerpt from a study entitled ‘Different pre-treatments of chrome-tanned leather waste and their use in the biogas production’ by Carolina Gomes, Michael Meyer and Jens-Uwe Repke from the Research Institute of Leather and Plastic Sheeting in Freiberg, Germany.
Don Ohsman’s view from the US
As the US leather industry gathered in Shanghai a few weeks ago, there was some degree of optimism among producers…
Taking the initiative
Tackling pollution in the Ganges and improving work conditions in Ethiopia are just two examples of Stahl’s commitment to advancing causes that will propel the leather industry into a cleaner and more reputable future. Michael Costello, the company’s sustainability director, talks to Leather International.
A shared vision: Stahl’s acquisition of BASF Leather Chemicals
Stahl has topped up its product portfolio and expanded its workforce with the acquisition of BASF Leather Chemicals. CEO Huub van Beijeren tells Ross Davies why the deal is a natural fit for both companies.
Trace to the finish
ICEC’s recent certification schemes to provide full traceability for raw materials ought to be viewed as an opportunity, rather than a threat. Andrea Guolo gauges the response of some leading tanners to the measures.
Together for leather
Leather Naturally’s steering committee reflects on a tumultuous 12 months and explains its recent shift from a strategy based on defending leather to one that involves more positively and proactively promoting it.
Heaven for leather: Lineapelle
With footfall up by 2% on the February edition, the latest Lineapelle, held on 4–6 October, was heralded as a great success by organisers and attendees. Leather International reports from Milan.
Natural progression
Biofabricated leather-like materials are currently the main disrupter of the leather industry because of how versatile they are in form, function and properties. Modern Meadow is leading the way as a partner – rather than a rival – to traditional tanning. Leather International speaks to chief technology officer Dave Williamson about the company’s vision.
Scaling the heights: exotic leathers
New York-based Pan American Leathers has been championing responsibly farmed exotic leathers since the 1930s. CEO Abram Mendal explains the family-run company’s philosophy.