We consider the environmental footprint of every material we use, including factors such as origin, production process, application, longevity, and the impact of disposal. Our aim is to craft long-lasting, sustainable products that serve you well over time, without compromising the planet.
Leather is one of our primary materials, carefully chosen for its durability, sustainability, and timeless appeal. There is a common misconception that animals are slaughtered for leather. In reality, leather is a by-product of the meat industry. Animals are raised for meat, and their skins which are otherwise considered waste—are then processed and transformed into leather. This usage of skins- waste generated on account of the meat industry- helps reduce fast fashion synthetic waste while providing a natural, bio-based biodegradable material that stands the test of time. At Blue&Blues, we believe in transparency and responsible sourcing, ensuring that every material we use aligns with our values of sustainability and ethical production.
Traceability:
The source of the hides and materials used is traceable, ensuring ethical sourcing. This means no animals are illegally slaughtered to produce the leather used in our products. They source hides as by-products of the meat industry. This practice ensures that the entire animal is used, reducing waste and making leather a more sustainable option. It aligns with the principle of using resources responsibly and ethically.
Environmental Compliance:
Our partner tanneries follow stringent regulations to reduce water usage, waste, and pollution, supporting more sustainable practices.
Chemical Management:
Safe and responsible handling of chemicals is a priority, ensuring reduced environmental harm.
Waste Management:
Effective recycling and disposal methods are in place, minimizing waste and promoting resource circularity.
Social Responsibility:
Tanneries uphold fair labor practices, ensuring safe working conditions and fair treatment of employees.
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Origin
These materials are made from petrochemicals—derived from fossil fuels—which require high energy to produce. This process releases harmful greenhouse gases, contributing significantly to climate change. In fact, plastics production alone accounts for 3.8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, nearly 1.8 billion metric tons of CO₂ annually.
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Use
With regular use, these synthetic materials crack, fade, and degrade over time. Due to their short life span, consumers replace these products far more frequently. Their nature also doesnt allow them to be repaired easily. Usually once they are damaged, they are beyond repair. This cycle of constant replacement creates an endless stream of waste, contributing to environmental degradation and resource depletion. Additionally, it forces consumers to spend more in the long run as they purchase cheap, short-lived goods again and again.
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End of life Impact
Other than their origin and short span of use, their end of life impact is the most crucial factor to consider while assessing its sustainability. By nature, these materials are non-biodegradable. They do not decompose. They linger in landfills for centuries, leaching harmful chemicals and toxins into the environment. When incinerated, they release even more toxins, worsening air pollution and accelerating climate change. Worse still, synthetic materials break down into microplastics, tiny particles that infiltrate our oceans, rivers, and soils. These microplastics enter the food chain, harming wildlife and potentially threatening human health.