Leather Processing, Its Effects on Environment and Alternatives of Chrome Tanning

There are several processes involved in leather making, one of the process is tanning. In tanning process, higher concentration of chromium is commonly used. Whereas chromium is regarded as one of the toxic heavy metal. The disposal of these chromium effluent into water bodies is known to cause various ill effects. To replace that, vegetable tanning can be practiced, where the method is easy as well as eco friendly. In this review, we have dealt about various procedures in leather processing especially chrome tanning and health hazards caused by chromium. Also added a note on vegetable tanning using tannins to replace the chrome tanning for making better environment.