image/svg+xml The SwitchMed programme is funded by the European Union image/svg+xml image/svg+xml

Analysis of the light fixtures used within the production hall revealed that the light intensity is not sufficient, and the light fixtures are of old technology, with high energy consumption. Replacement of the light fixtures with modern technology, reduce the energy cost, increase the light intensity, and increase the lifetime of the lamps.

Due to lack of measurement of water consumption within a tannery, the company has uncontrolled water use, and consequently excessive consumption. Installing a monitoring system for water consumption on company level, and at the level of main water consumers, in addition to setting internal KPIs/OPIs for water consumption increase the level of awareness for the optimum consumption, and result in continous reduction of its use.

This practice is an example of a circular economy solution within a tannery. Chemicals used to remove hair from hides, if properly selected, the removed hair can be directed towards fertilizer production, or directly used for agricultural applications rather than being delivered to landfills.

In tanning process, salting the leather is essential, however is results in increased salinity of the wastewater. Introducing an industrial desallination fuller, that is used to pound the skins helps reduce the amount of salt needed for salting, saving in material and labor force.