We are excited to share the three pledges COTANCE is publicly making for 2026 — to ensure that leather is recognised as a natural, circular and responsibly produced material that creates jobs and value from livestock residues, while positioning the European leather industry as innovative, competitive and attractive.
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🔹 Pledge 1 — Reposition Leather in the EU Green Industrial Deal Agenda
We will actively promote the recognition of leather — a bio-based, circular, biodegradable material — in at least two EU legislative files related to the bioeconomy and circular economy by 2026.
🔹 Pledge 2 — Secure Fair EUDR Treatment for Leather & Advance Global Traceability
We will continue advocating for the exclusion of bovine hides, skins and leather from the scope of the EUDR as they do not drive deforestation, while advancing global leather traceability through the Leather Traceability Cluster.
In 2026, we will advance global traceability through the Leather Traceability Cluster and secure CEN recognition of the EN 18199 traceability standard.
🔹 Pledge 3 — Boost R&D, Innovation & Skills
We will strengthen European leather’s green and digital transition by mobilising new research, technologies, and skills — and by supporting at least three EU-funded projects per year, including long-term funding for the LEATECH Erasmus Mundus Master in Innovative Leather Technology.
COTANCE remains committed to a vibrant, collaborative future for Europe’s leather value chain — one built on science, innovation, and responsible production.
Pledge now to join the common thread: right here, in Europe 👉The power of pledges: driving sustainable transformation in the EU Textiles Ecosystem .
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