H&M Foundation and HKRITA Investigate Strategies for Expanding Eco-Friendly Leather Production
Admin In a significant breakthrough during the research phase, H&M Foundation and the Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel (HKRITA) have successfully introduced reProLeather. This revolutionary technology transforms post-consumer leather fibers into leather sheets in an environmentally responsible manner. The process involves the separation of chromium VI from shredded leather fibers and the development of bio-based alternatives to commonly used PU and PVC binders, ultimately leading to the creation of a new, biodegradable, and recyclable form of recycled leather.
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ReProLeather is a cutting-edge recycled leather system that reimagines post-consumer leather products, converting them into valuable raw materials for the production of innovative new items. The process unfolds in two stages. Initially, a complete post-consumer leather product is meticulously shredded until high-purity leather fibers are obtained. Moreover, free chromium is effectively removed by converting it into a soluble salt or complex compound, ensuring the material’s safety and sustainability.
Subsequently, the separated leather fibers are subjected to a unique treatment using bio-based binders, such as those derived from sugar or protein, all conducted under mild conditions. This process facilitates the interconnection of collagen fibers, resulting in the creation of a brand-new leather material. This regenerated leather, produced through a groundbreaking bio-based approach, boasts remarkable water resistance and, importantly, biodegradability. This initiative sets the stage for a sustainable and virtuous cycle in leather recycling.
With a clear vision for the future, HKRITA is actively seeking industry partners to refine production properties and enhance functionality. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the applicability of this innovation within the industry, fostering a more sustainable and responsible approach to leather production.
Christiane Dolva, the strategy lead of H&M Foundation says: “As a philanthropic change agent for the entire industry we take risks to unlock needed solutions with the ambition to find technologies that can contribute to a planet-positive fashion future. I’m always open to sharing our findings openly with others, to find industry actors ready to adopt bold innovations and rePro Leather could be one of these solutions. I hope to see it scale soon.”
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