Scientists in Karnataka have been able to come up with an environmentally friendly leather using used fish skin. The innovation provides an environmentally friendly substitute for traditional animal leather. It also handles seafood industry waste. Fish skin that was thrown away receives new economic merits.
Solving a contamination and pollution issue
The fish processing industry in India produces huge rates of organic waste on a daily basis. A large portion of this waste consists of fish skin. Dumped, it pollutes by odor and water. Researchers minimize the landfill by turning fish skin into leather. They reduced environmental degradation as well.
Process Tanning Cleaner Process
Conventional tanning using leather does depend on chromium and poisonous chemicals. These chemicals contaminate the soil and water. The Karnataka team relies on plant-based and low-impact tanning agents. The process minimizes discharge of chemicals. It is also less water and energy-consuming. The leather obtained is sturdy and pliant.
Strong and Natural Paper
A special scale pattern is possessed by fish skin leather. It provides a high-end natural texture. High tensile strength is indicated by the tests. It would be comparable to or even better than cow leather in some situations. The fabric is not tearable and stretchable. It is also lightweight and breathable.
Fashion and industry, like fashion decorating and finishing items and/or components. Elements of design such as decorating and finishing. The process of plating and finishing metal articles is called electroplating.
The new complex leather is used in more than one way. It can be applied to wallets, belts, shoes, and bags by the designers. It is also used on the accents of furniture and automobile interiors. It appeals to the high-end markets due to its exotic appearance. It is also likely that export demand will increase.
Catalysis of Coastal and Inland Economies
The invention serves the interests of fisher communities and small processors. Another source of income is fish skin. Raw material can be collected and supplied by the local units. This provides new processing and finishing employment. It empowers the circular economy model.
Reduced carbon and water footprint
The fish skin leather takes advantage of by-products and does not use new hides of animals. This will decrease the stress of livestock farming. The process produces fewer greenhouse gases. The consumption of water reduces considerably with respect to the leather used conventionally. The product is sustainable in line with the global standards.
Increasing Industry and Startup Activation
Footwear labels and green fashion startups have been interested. Pilot-scale manufacturing is being done. Researchers seek to expand by partnering with industries. Commercial adoption may grow rapidly with the help of the policy.
A Step towards Green Manufacturing
The breakthrough makes Karnataka a leading researcher on sustainable materials. It teaches how waste may turn out to be valuable. The leather (fish skin) can transform the leather industry in India. It also enhances the movement towards clean manufacturing processes.
