The Italian Association of Leather Chemists (AICC) Tuscany Section held its annual conference in Tuscany on November 15th, 2024 at Villa Sonnino in San Miniato. The event, titled “Sustaining Sustainability”, brought together industry experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to environmental sustainability in the tanning sector. The conference saw the participation of numerous industry experts, including Franca Nuti (AICC President) and other members of the association, as well as experts from UNIC – Italian Tanneries. Among the speakers were Serenella Sara, Head of Unit Directorate D – Sustainable Resources – Land Resources and Supply Chain Assessments – European Commission; Giulia Martin, Giampiero Geminiani and Marta Montanari from UNIC’s Economic Office, Legal Office and Environmental Service respectively; Enrico Brena, Central Technical and Scientific Directorate – Head of Sustainability Area, Circular Economy, Responsible Care Program – Federchimica and Christian Baio from Spin 360. The conference analyzed the new challenges for the tanning supply chain arising from the application of the Ecodesign regulation, with particular attention to the impact on production and export. An assessment of circularity in the Italian tanning sector was presented, based on the ISO 59020 standard, highlighting the progress made and areas for improvement. The conference explored new trends and future prospects for sustainability in the leather and natural materials sector, with a focus on innovation and research. Journalist and founder of Solo Moda Sostenibile, Silvia Gambi, concluded the conference with a round table discussion with Marco Frediani (Unpac), Federico Brena, Christian Baio, Giulia Martin, Marta Montanari and Michele Matteoli (Consorzio Conciatori). The event emphasized the importance of an integrated approach that involves the entire supply chain, from production to communication, to ensure a sustainable future for the tanning industry. It was also an opportunity to call for a simplification of the European regulatory framework: a more pragmatic and less bureaucratic approach is needed, one that takes into account the specific characteristics of the various production chains and the size of businesses. Only in this way will it be possible to achieve sustainability goals without stifling the economy.
The conference day concluded with a delightful convivial dinner offered by sponsors, providing a moment for networking and relaxation, an opportunity to share experiences, forge new connections in an atmosphere of cordiality and collaboration, and exchange ideas in an informal setting. President Franca Nuti extended special thanks to the sponsors for their valuable contribution and to all the participants for making the conference a success.
The Italian Association of Leather Chemists (AICC) is a point of reference for all professionals in the leather industry, an association that works to promote excellence, sustainability, and innovation in the sector. Its members are leather chemists and technicians, graduates or diploma holders, employed in the tanning, dyeing, and related industries. The conferences organized by AICC offer a unique opportunity for participants to deepen their knowledge, engage with experts, and discover the latest innovations in the leather sector, fostering dialogue with leading specialists in the field. Meeting colleagues creates new connections and strengthens professional networks. San Miniato, the Tuscan city where the AICC Tuscany conferences are held, is located in the heart of the tanning district and symbolizes Italian tradition and excellence in leather processing.
