Skip to content

What would you like to look for?

Site search
Search

Leather Working Group is developing its next Standard, which will include moving from the current protocol to a Sustainability System that incorporates a Manufacturing Standard, Chain of Custody and Deforestation Due Diligence, along with the creation of a Carbon Footprint Tool. The work takes a multi stakeholder approach and is informed by ISEAL guidance. The development is overseen by a Programme Board that is made up of representatives from across our broad stakeholder group.

Consultation

Collaboration and consultation are at the heart of Leather Working Group. Our Leather Production Standard and Chain of Custody Standard are shaped by a broad stakeholder group, with experts from across the leather industry helping to drive and define the scope and technical criteria. A key part of this process is the upcoming public consultation period, which offers valuable opportunities for involvement, including:

• Giving your company a voice in the development of standards
• Helping to maintain open industry access
• Providing a platform to express both concerns and support

The first public consultation for the core environmental sections of the LWG Leather Production Standard is now closed, after 700 downloads from around 30 countries. Our sincere thanks to everyone that took time to review the draft Standard and submit comments, it is an invaluable part of the development process.

Other parts of the new Standard will be open to public consultation in September 2025 and once live, the link will be published here.
 

 

Pilot Testing

Pilot testing ensures proposed requirements are practical, scalable, and trusted across the leather industry.

Covering the Leather Production Standard, Chain of Custody Standard, Due Diligence, as well as some social requirements, on-site pilot audits will be conducted across 15-20 sites on a rolling basis with at least two members of Leather Working Group present alongside an auditor and representation from LWG AS (where appropriate).

After pilot testing, it is anticipated that the new LWG Standards will be published in half one 2026.