The leather sector in Pakistan stands as the nation’s third-largest export industry, contributing approximately 4% to the national GDP and providing livelihoods for over a million people. Despite its critical role in the economy, the industry is grappling with significant challenges, particularly concerning its environmental impact.
The sector is under scrutiny for its release of hazardous chemicals and waste and the lack of transparency within its value chain, raising concerns about responsible sourcing practices.
As global markets increasingly demand sustainably and ethically sourced products, the pressure on Pakistan’s leather industry to enhance its environmental practices and increase transparency has never been greater.
To stay competitive, the industry must embrace robust traceability systems and adopt cleaner production practices, aligning with both national and international environmental standards.
In response to these challenges, WWF-Pakistan, in collaboration with partners such as the Punjab Agriculture & Meat Company (PAMCO), Pakistan Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (PCSIR), Information Technology University (ITU), and Leather Field Pvt Ltd., has launched an initiative.
This project aims to identify key actors within the leather value chain while promoting cleaner production methods and circular economy principles.
The goal is to not only address the current environmental issues but also position Pakistan’s leather industry to meet the growing global demand for responsibly sourced leather products.
The initiative is structured around a three-pronged approach aimed at reducing pollution, improving the manufacturing process, and building the capacity of both public sector entities and value chain participants:
- Digital Traceability Toolkit: The development and implementation of a digital traceability toolkit is a key component of the initiative. This toolkit will trace leather hides from direct suppliers and farms to the factory, enhancing transparency and providing valuable insights into the leather value chain.
- Waste Recycling: Another critical aspect of the project is the recycling of waste generated during leather processing. By converting trimmings, fleshing, and shavings into water-resistant surfactants, the project aims to promote circularity within the sector.
- Cleaner Production Practices: To further reduce the environmental footprint, the project will focus on decreasing pollution in wastewater. The use of lipase enzymes will phase out the need for imported commercial agents and toxic organic solvents, fostering cleaner production methods and reducing the impact on workers’ health.
The project is still in its early stages, with the team currently formalizing agreements with consortium partners and preparing for an inception workshop scheduled within the first quarter.
This workshop will serve as a critical platform for aligning the project’s goals and ensuring a coordinated effort towards sustainable leather production in Pakistan.
In conclusion, as Pakistan’s leather industry navigates these environmental challenges, the collaborative efforts of WWF-Pakistan and its partners could pave the way for a more sustainable and transparent future. By embracing traceability, recycling, and cleaner production practices, the industry not only safeguards its position in global markets but also contributes positively to the environment and the well-being of its workforce. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other industries facing similar challenges.
