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DRAFT***

Evironmental Impact of Artificial Leather

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU) are the most common materials used in the creation of artificial leathers. When PVC is created when chlorine, carbon, and ethylene react together to form vinyl chloride which then undergoes further treatment resulting in PVC. The fabric is then coated in PVC and a plasticiser called a phthalate is introduced to make the artificial leather flexible and soft. PVC requires oil and large amounts of energy thus making it reliant on fossil fuels. During the production and incineration processes a carcinogenic byproduct, called dioxins, are released which have a highly toxic effect on humans and animals. Dioxins remain in the environment long after PVC is manufactured. When PVC ends up in a landfill it does not decompose like animal leather and can release dangerous chemicals into the water and soil. Polyurethane is currently the popular alternative to PVC nowadays. Like PVC, Polyurethane does not last as long as leather, uses toxic solvents in the production process, and cannot decompose.