There’s an old saying: “Count what counts.” For generations, farmers have worked the land and raised livestock not just for food, but for a way of life, one that’s closely connected to nature’s rhythms. Yet today, amid increasing environmental scrutiny, the way we measure methane emissions from livestock risks upsetting that balance.
An article in International Leather Maker by leather industry expert Mike Redwood, Counting Scottish Cattle, highlights the importance of nuance and precision in how greenhouse gases are measured, particularly when it comes to cattle farming. His main point is clear: if we don’t accurately measure methane emissions, we risk vilifying one of the most efficient and sustainable systems we have. Along the way, we might overlook the value that leather offers—not only to farmers but also to industries like the automotive industry, which seek truly durable and circular materials.
At the centre of the debate is the question of how to measure methane. Traditionally, emissions are calculated using a metric called Global Warming Potential (GWP100), which averages everything over a 100-year period. But methane doesn’t behave like CO₂. It’s a short-lived gas that breaks down in a few decades, not centuries. This has led to calls for a more suitable model—GWP*—which considers the flow of methane over time, rather than just its presence. An increasing number of scientists argue that using outdated metrics makes livestock farming appear far worse for the climate than it actually is.
And this matters not just to farmers in the Highlands but also to those who depend on the by-products of that industry, including automotive manufacturers and consumers. Because leather doesn’t come from animals bred specifically for their hides, it is derived from hides that already exist, leftovers from beef and dairy production. Wasting them would only increase the environmental burden, rather than reduce it.
The road to sustainability isn’t always straight, but it should always be honest
Leather is one of the most circular materials we have. When tanned and finished responsibly, it provides exceptional durability, repairability, and longevity, especially in demanding environments like car interiors. Although synthetic alternatives often appear to be sustainable, they are generally made from petrochemicals, which are prone to faster degradation and are difficult to recycle. In contrast, a leather car seat can last the lifetime of the vehicle and beyond, maintaining its tactile appeal, performance, and value.
What this article reminds us is that data matters, but so does context. To make genuinely sustainable decisions, we need to see the full picture. That involves understanding emissions over the right timescale, recognising the value of by-products, and rewarding durable materials.
Choosing leather for automotive interiors isn’t just about luxury; it’s about logic. It’s about making the most of what we already have and ensuring it lasts. It’s about supporting industries, from Scottish cattle farms to European tanneries, that are working hard to reduce waste, adopt renewable energy, and improve every link in the supply chain.
The road to sustainability isn’t always straight, but it should always be honest. And when we take the time to count what truly counts, leather remains one of the most innovative and most responsible materials we can choose.
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