In a world increasingly aware of the fashion industry's environmental impact, a key question arises: can leather be a sustainable choice? Although it has often been controversial, natural leather can represent a durable, ethical, and environmentally friendly alternative—provided it's responsibly produced. Here are five reasons why leather deserves a place in the wardrobe of those committed to sustainable fashion. And at MONPIEL, we make it happen.
One of leather’s main virtues is its longevity. Unlike many synthetic materials that deteriorate quickly, a well-maintained leather garment or accessory can last for decades. Moreover, if a leather garment or leather accessory ever becomes damaged, the material’s malleability also works in its favor. Leather can be restored by professionals who know how to bring it back to its original appearance. This durability reduces the need to frequently replace products, lowering the consumer's ecological footprint.
One of leather’s most notable aspects as a sustainable material is its biodegradability. Unlike synthetic materials such as plastic or polyester, which can take hundreds of years to break down and release microplastics in the process, leather is a completely natural material that decomposes organically. This means that at the end of its useful life, leather breaks down more quickly and safely for the environment, returning its components to nature without leaving a toxic trace.
All Monpiel products are handmade in small artisanal workshops located in Spain—from their leather bags to their leather shoes. The artisanal process of tanning and crafting leather requires skills and knowledge passed down from generation to generation. Artisanal leather workshops typically employ local workers who use traditional techniques that are significantly gentler on the environment than industrial methods. In Spain, leather craftsmanship has long been a tradition, one that MONPIEL continues to nurture.
Furthermore, by choosing this type of production, dependence on factories that do not always operate ethically or transparently is reduced.
Leather can be a conscious choice when it is sourced as a by-product of the food industry. This means animals are not raised exclusively for their leather; rather, the leather is used as a way to avoid wasting materials that would otherwise be discarded.
Choosing leather under this logic is not about supporting a harmful industry but about giving a second life to an existing resource. It becomes an act of respect towards the animal, the environment, and all the human effort involved in that production cycle.
Technological evolution has made it possible to revive ancestral practices such as vegetable tanning, which uses natural extracts instead of heavy chemicals. This process is not only less toxic but also creates a more natural and unique finish on the leather, resulting in variations in color and texture.
By choosing leather products that have been vegetable-tanned, consumers support cleaner production methods, contributing to the reduction of pollution and excessive use of toxic resources in the fashion industry.
Brands like MONPIEL show that sustainable fashion is an achievable reality. By choosing quality leather products, ethically and responsibly made, you not only acquire a luxury accessory but also contribute to a more conscious and environmentally respectful consumption model.
