As we reach the end of the second decade of the 21^st century, sustainability transverses all fashion sectors as consumers continue to become more environmentally aware and manufacturers respond in their supply chains to satisfy this ethical awareness that continues to expand across all consumer groups.

According to APLF: "In terms of applications leather has far more competition from synthetics than ever before and has lost market share especially in the footwear sector. To regain market share and favour with designers and manufacturers, leather has to highlight its many qualities so as to compete effectively. These qualities include sustainability, biodegradability, longevity and natural beauty and when combined with innovation, craftsmanship and even heritage, these allow leather to compete more directly with sustainability taking the lead, as consumers become more aware of the environment and the dangers posed to it by all non-biodegradable petroleum based plastics and synthetics".

APLF is now also strong by establishing itself as the Sustainable Sourcing Platform in the Asia Pacific Region and is developing a business community motivated by issues related to eco-conceptions such as traceability, sustainable production and recycling that all play a part in environmental care.

In addition to a programme of conferences and seminars, which include a Sustainable Fashion Forum, Materials+ Sustainability Programme, the annual Sustainability in the Leather Supply Chain Conference, a display of sustainable products from exhibitors from across the 4 fairs can be viewed in the Core of the Materials+ fair.

Photo by Tobias Weinhold on Unsplash