The Director of CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute Dr Thanikaivelan recently held a meeting in Kolkata with Mr Ramesh Kumar Juneja, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports and members of the Calcutta Leather Complex Tanners Association.
The discussion focused on strengthening research and technical support for the growth of the Eastern leather sector. Industry leaders and scientists came together to explore how collaboration between research institutions and manufacturers can help the sector grow in a more sustainable way.
During the meeting stakeholders highlighted several key challenges faced by leather units in the region. One of the major topics discussed was the need to measure and reduce carbon footprint across leather manufacturing operations.
Industry members also raised concerns about reducing Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in tannery effluents which remains a major environmental issue. Improving solid waste management systems inside leather clusters was another priority discussed during the interaction.
They also spoke about the potential of developing leather auxiliaries from leather solid waste. This approach could help convert waste into useful materials and reduce environmental pressure on the industry.
The meeting reflected a growing push within the Indian leather sector to focus on sustainability innovation and responsible manufacturing while strengthening the role of research institutions in solving industry challenges.
