Leather to be officially recognised as bio-based material
15/09/2025
These European standards provide a harmonised framework for defining and certifying bio-based products, improving transparency and trust in the market. Key references include EN 16575 (terminology for bio-based products), EN 16751 (sustainability criteria), EN 16640 (determination of bio-based carbon content) and EN 16848 (business-to-business communication requirements). Together, they are designed to prevent misleading claims, support EU bioeconomy and circular economy goals, and give manufacturers a way to verify and communicate renewable content.
With this recognition, leather now has the official right to be considered a bio-based material, a move that strengthens its position in sustainability discussions and gives tanners and the wider supply chain a clearer framework for making and defending environmental claims.