Application Status of Cleaner Technologies and Sustainable Waste Utilization in the Case of Ethiopian Leather Industries-Literature Review
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Abstract
The leather industry in Ethiopia plays a vital role in economic development and employment, but remains one of the most pollution-intensive sectors due to high generation of liquid and solid wastes containing hazardous substances such as chromium, sulfides, and organic matter. This literature review examines the application status of cleaner technologies (e.g., high-exhaustion chrome tanning, low-sulfide/enzymatic unhairing, CO2 deliming, compact retanning, and wet-white processing) and sustainable waste utilization practices in Ethiopian tanneries. Existing studies highlight limited adoption of cleaner production (CP) options, with most tanneries relying on conventional processes and end-of-pipe treatments, leading to environmental challenges including water pollution, soil contamination, and methane emissions from landfilled wastes. Recent initiatives, such as the Green Tannery Initiative, have piloted enzymatic unhairing to replace sodium sulfide and hydrolysis-based valorization of fleshings, trimmings, and other solid wastes into biofertilisers, demonstrating feasible circular economy models. Other Ethiopian-focused efforts include converting finished leather straps and solid wastes into value-added composites (e.g., boards and consumer products) blended with plant fibers, as well as explorations of protein hydrolysates, glue from limed trimmings, and organic compost. Barriers to wider implementation include high costs of advanced technologies, inadequate infrastructure, regulatory enforcement gaps, and limited technical capacity. However, successful cases indicate potential for reduced pollution loads, resource recovery (e.g., chromium recycling, biogas, collagen derivatives) and economic benefits through waste-to-wealth approaches. The review underscores the need for integrated strategies combining technical upgrades, policy support, and industry collaboration to advance sustainability in Ethiopia’s leather sector.
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