Why Specifying Garrett Leather is Good for the Environment

Under the influences of the COVID-19 outbreak, now more than ever, we are in tune with our surroundings. Designers today are more aware of the choices they make and the impact those choices have on our immediate surroundings, as well as on the environment as a whole. Likewise, it is our corporate responsibility to focus on how our business practices influence the environment. We uphold high standards on not only the quality of our products, but the business practices of our vendors and the impact they have on our environment. As a result, we are very selective about how and where our leather is made.

Not all leather is the same. We encourage you to shop and compare before you specify leather for your next project. Here are a few reasons why specifying Garrett leather is good for the environment.

Responsible Animal Farming

We sell genuine leather. Our products are by-products of the meat industry. Beef is the primary product and meat consumption worldwide is reaching record levels. The animals are not harmed solely for the hides.

Our raw materials are sourced from Europe, where they have high standards for animal protections.

  • In Europe, using artificial growth hormones on beef cattle is strictly prohibited. This is not only healthier for the person consuming the meat, it is also better for the animal. Cows and bulls grow at natural rates. Consequently, the hides are stronger with less stretch marks.
  • There are more open fields for the animals to graze freely. As a result, there is minimal damage to the hides from barbed wire and confined spaces.
  • The climate in Europe is ideal for the animals. There are less insects and bug bites than in warmer countries, such as South America.

All these factors contribute to our superior quality hides, which are stronger and cleaner than leather sourced from other parts of the world.

Responsible Tanning

We primarily work with tanneries in Italy because Italy has some of the strictest environmental laws in place.

  • We use natural raw materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
  • Our tanneries use non-toxic ingredients and water-based finishes.
  • They utilize advanced filtration systems that return clean, drinkable water to the environment.
  • Our tanneries are family owned businesses that have been passed down for generations. Their business practices have continually evolved and improved with technological advancements.
  • The tanning facilities are clean and safe for their employees.

Reliable Durability and Longevity

Leather has been used for centuries.There are many long-term benefits to using leather.

  • Leather is an enduring product that lasts for decades when properly maintained.
  • The intricate natural collagen fiber structure of leather is highly flexible, yet strong and durable. Gram for gram, collagen is stronger than steel.
  • Man-made fabrics that are uniform in weave do not provide that same strength and durability as leather.
  • Leather has been used for centuries and for good reasons. We discussed how faux leather products compare to genuine leather in a previous blog

Environmental Benefits

  • Leather allows us to up-cycle and turn a by-product of the meat industry into a beautiful product that could last for generations. It is a responsible way of keeping waste out of landfills.
  • Our leather does not contain toxins such as conflict minerals, Persistant Organic Pollutants (POPs), Polyvinly Chloride (PVC), Bisphenol A (BPA), Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), plasticizers, heavy metals, or phthalates.
  • Almost all our leather products are GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality certified, with no harmful off-gassing.
  • Our products are also part of the Mindful Materials library, which is a resource where designers can go to find sustainable products for their projects.
  • Leather's longevity reduces waste and minimizes replacement costs and resources.
  • Many of our products have anti-bacterial protection and do not require harsh cleaning chemicals.

We welcome environmental conversations and are happy to address concerns you may have regarding our products. Feel free to contact us, if you have any questions.