UK's Leather Working Group to provide mechanism for verified green claims

By

Nigel TAYLOR

Published
Sep 5, 2022

Saying is one thing, proving is another. With a number of fashion brands now under official scrutiny over their sustainability claims, transparency has become a timely issue for the Leather Working Group (LWG).

 

The body is set to launch the first phase of its ‘Chain of Custody Project ‘ at the LWG Member Conference on 22 September, aiming to “drive transparency and provide a mechanism for verified green claims”. 

LWG describes the Project is a “game-changing, innovative initiative, designed to provide a robust method of assurance for the leather products that you purchase”.

On launch, it said: “Globally, we are aware of the urgent need for products with robust green credentials. Markets for leather goods are therefore changing to address consumer demands, as well as comply with new regulations that aim to prevent greenwashing”.

And labelling “is key… providing visibility to the positive attributes – showing simply and accurately how a product was made or where it comes from. A transparent supply chain and verified sustainability information is essential to ensure these labels are legal, verified, and can therefore be trusted”. 

LWG says the Project “will create a vision for how this will be developed, together with a practical delivery plan specifically designed for the leather industry”. 

Christina Trautmann, LWG head, added: “Being able to make verified sustainability claims, supported by evidence is a critical priority. This initiative will support Leather Working Group’s mission to create a foundation for showcasing sustainable leather products. We are calling on industry stakeholders to embrace this initiative by working with us to build transparency and trust in leather as sustainable material.”