Leather embodies the principles of circularity. Leather extends the value of existing resources, prevents waste, stores carbon and offers durability that reduces consumption over time. Unlike synthetics, it develops character through age, repair, and reuse. Unlike plastics, it returns to the earth when its life is done.

Following on from previous Leather Industry Manifestos, the Manifesto for COP30 draws attention to leather and its role in slow fashion and in long-lived, repairable products. The Manifesto once again calls on the COP: recognise the cyclical, climate efficient nature of leather and its potential for a positive contribution to reducing the climate impacts of consumer products; support LCA methodologies that accurately account for the environmental impact of all materials; to promote ‘slow fashion’ using durable bio-based materials that can be used many times, repaired and refurbished and; wherever feasible to encourage the use of natural renewable fibres like leather.