Responsibly produced leather can involve sourcing practices and processing methods that aim to reduce environmental and chemical impact. This may include the use of reclaimed leather, lower-impact tanning techniques, or sourcing from tanneries evaluated under standards such as those established by the Leather Working Group. Leather is often a byproduct of the food industry, and when managed thoughtfully, its use can support more efficient material utilization and reduced waste.

Leather is produced from animal hides, most commonly cattle, as a byproduct of the food industry. It has been used for thousands of years across cultures for protection, utility, and craft. Leather is biodegradable in its natural state, but its environmental impact depends largely on tanning processes and chemical use. Responsible leather focuses on reduced-impact tanning, improved waste management, and transparency in sourcing. Leather is widely used in footwear, bags, belts, furniture, and accessories, valued for its strength, repairability, and ability to age gracefully.