The webinar, “How the leather industry can use science and data to improve its image”, moderated by ILM Editor Isabella Griffiths, features four high-calibre speakers who will give a fresh take on this topic from an academic, a tanner and a brand perspective.

Dr Sascha Dietrich, Director of the Testing Laboratory, and Dr Michael Meyer, Scientific Director and Managing Director, at the FILK technical institute in Freiberg, Germany, will provide an overview and key findings of the recent comparative study between leather and alternative materials and their characteristics and performance.

Kim Sena, Sustainability Manager at JBS Couros, will talk about the company’s sustainable Kind Leather concept and the positive results of its lifecycle assessment and how this can serve to reinforce a better image of leather overall.

Finally, Yoann Regent, Biodiversity and Animal Welfare Specialist working across luxury group Kering’s Sustainability Programs, will give insights into Kering’s Environmental Profit & Loss account and share why this is not only a vital tool in measuring the environmental footprint of its supply chain, but also helps with its decision-making over sourcing and plays a vital role in promoting better practices throughout the whole fashion industry.

Who should watch this webinar?
This webinar is aimed at the whole leather supply chain from meat processors and traders to leather manufacturers and leather using brands, retailers and OEMs.

Webinar speaker programme:
• First presentation: Dr Sascha Dietrich, Director of the Testing Laboratory, and Dr Michael Meyer, Scientific Director and Managing Director, FILK technical institute in Freiberg, Germany, “Leather versus alternative and trendy materials”
• Second presentation: Kim Sena, Sustainability Manager, JBS Couros, “Lifecycle Assessment of Kind Leather”
• Third presentation: Yoann Regent, Biodiversity and Animal Welfare Specialist, Kering, “Environmental P+L and best practice”

The presentations will be followed by a brief Q&A session.

Webinar overview:
Date: Thursday, May 27, 2021
Time: 2pm (UK), 3pm CET
Duration: ca. 45 minutes.
Cost: Free to attend (participation subject to approval)
Click here to register for free.