Leather production involves a series of processes, such as soaking (rehydrating and washing skins), liming, deliming, tanning (making sure that the skins are no longer susceptible to rotting) or dyeing (giving the skin the desired color) that use water, detergents, lime, enzymes and various chemicals.[1] This results in complex effluents throughout the entire leather production, with approximately 15–50 m³ of effluent generated per tonne of raw hides processed, and around 500 kg of process chemicals added. Therefore, emissions to water are one of the main environmental concerns of leather production, with additional risks of contamination to groundwater from accidental spillages and leakages of certain agents.[2] The widespread use of Chromium(III) salts in 80-90% of global tanneries, while not classified as hazardous waste by the EU, raises a critical concern due to the potential oxidation of Chromium(III) to Chromium(VI).[3] If present in drinking water, chromium(VI) poses significant health risks, such as an increased risk of cancer and damages to the liver and reproductive systems.[4] As there is a lack of alternatives to chromium tanning that provides leather with the same qualities, tanners in Europe employ specific precautions to prevent chromium(VI) formation. However, this risk persists, if such precautions are not properly administered or monitored.[5] The environmental impacts of tanneries, including emissions and waste production, vary significantly based on factors such as the type of leather produced, the source of hides and skins, and the specific techniques employed in the tanning process.Despite these variations, wastewater remains a major concern in leather production, given that a significant portion of a tannery's operations involves water.[6] Implementing best practices in tanneries and addressing environmental impacts in the leather industry is crucial.