About LWG

Leather Working Group is a not-for-profit Organization responsible for the world's leading environmental certification for the leather manufacturing industry.

As a multi-stakeholder group, LWG boasts over 1300 members from across the leather supply chain.

Scope of Audit

Purpose of Audit:

Evaluate the environmental performance of tannery operations.

Scope:

• Operations undertaken in any given site, but includes if any operations are subcontracted-out.
• Full range of tannery operations.
• Includes effluent treatment even if performed in a different location.
• Includes maintenance, technical, and administrative activities.
• Excludes residential aspects (like dormitories, canteen, etc.).
• 12 months' operations (most recent but last of which should not be more than 3 months). If it is 6-months operational data for a newly built tannery, certification will be valid for one year.

Audit Process

• LWG audits can be conducted by any LWG Approved auditors – there are 12 auditors around the world. Another auditor is under training.
• LWG auditors work independently and as employees of LWG.
• 2 / 3 man-days per site.
• Multi-site audits: Each permit is considered as separate sites and hence separate audits, because each permit can have independent legal consequences.
• Audit reports are peer-reviewed by another LWG auditor before issuing certificate.
• Validity of certification: 24 months.
• Listing in LWG website is voluntary.

Benefits of LWG Audit

• A mechanism that supports the promotion of continual improvement in environmental performance.
• Acceptance to buyers.
• Improved environmental performance.
• Better image of the company.
• Reduced water consumption.
• Reduced energy consumption.
• Reduced wastage of chromium and other chemicals.
• Reduced occupational risk and reduced health hazards.
• A management system to handle restricted substances, improve environmental performance.

Measures Adopted by the Tannery

• Re-engineering recipe for leather manufacturing – focus to reduce water and improve chemical uptake.
• Training to shop floor employees.
• Training to employees on Environmental Management System.
• Safety awareness training, training on the use of PPEs.
• Water flow meters in each of drums.
• Installation of active guards for all drive parts in all machines.
• Optimizing machine operations particularly in finishing to reduce energy.
• 5S - Good housekeeping measures.