What is tanneries?

Tanneries are facilities that process animal hides and skins into leather. The process of tanning involves treating the animal skin with chemicals or natural substances in order to preserve and harden it.

Tanneries are typically located in areas where there is a ready supply of animal hides, such as near slaughterhouses or animal farms. Historically, tanneries have been located near bodies of water, as water is needed for many of the processes involved in tanning.

Tanneries can be divided into two main types: vegetable tanneries and chrome tanneries. Vegetable tanning involves using natural substances such as tree bark, roots, and leaves to tan the leather. Chrome tanning involves using chemicals such as chromium sulfate to tan the leather.

Tanning can be a highly polluting process, as it involves the use of chemicals and generates wastewater and solid waste. Many tanneries have faced criticism for their environmental impact and for the treatment of workers and animals.

In recent years, there has been increased interest in sustainable and ethical leather production. This has led to the development of new technologies and processes, as well as the establishment of certifications and standards for sustainable and ethical leather production.