Is Zeology tanned leather more biodegradable than chrome or glutardialdehyde (GDA) tanned leather? Before hides/skins are tanned, they are naturally biodegradable. The tanning process changes the chemistry inside the leather fibers to make it more difficult for the enzymes from bacteria and fungi to break them down. Any leather can be composted but the speed of degradation and environmental impact depend on the tanning chemistry used. The tanning technologies developed in the past mainly focused on the durability (and longevity) of the leather; however, current society asks for an additional sustainability property – leather that biodegrades into components that can enter natural cycles once again. Zeology tanned leather does biodegrade quicker than the traditional tanning technologies (Wet White & Wet Blue) as shown in the graph. The Zeology tanned material appears to be broken down by simple primary enzymes that allow easy bioassimilation of the amino acids into the bacterial cells, especially compared to conventional leather types. Bioassimilation based on a) Plant Response Test for Zeo White based compost, and b) the aquoues biodegradation by micro-organims4 for different materials: untanned collagen, zeolite tanned, Wet White (GDA) and Wet Blue (Chrome). Read more about the Biodegradability of Zeo White Interesting for you Discover more on Biodegradability What chemicals are used to tan leather? The most used chemical to tan leather is chromium III. Other chemicals used in tanning are aldehyde, vegetable tannins and zeolites. Is Leather Biodegradable? Leather can be a biodegradable material. Processed leather can be composted but the environmental impact and the biodegradability of the leather depends, among others, on the chemistry being used. Exploring the Different Types of Leather Chemicals Used in Leather Production From Tanning Agents to Finishing Chemicals: A Comprehensive Overview of the Different Types of Leather Chemicals. Biodegradability Discover Stay informed Receive the latest company news and industry updates Subscribe Share this: