Reviving Hides & Skins as Valued Livestock Products

The Study

For regenerative livestock to be viable and sustainable, the non-edible outputs must be considered and valued. Historically, abattoirs were able to derive significant value from hides and skins but the market and infrastructure for these has largely collapsed due to the rise of synthetics and cheap imports. Yet these products not only make full use of the animal, reducing waste and providing income, but can create natural, quality, long-lasting materials, without degrading the environment. What is needed to restore value to these products? How can we shift away from single crop enterprises and towards diverse business models? What are the barriers and what is needed in terms of infrastructure, skills and market access? We will hear from people who are working directly to address these challenges and create innovative solutions.