The International Workshop on Sustainable Production in Leather Processing Industry that was jointly organized by TUBITAK-BUTAL, TIKA and UNIDO, took place from 28th May – 7th June 2013, in Tubitak-Butal, Bursa, Turkey. The workshop that was attended by a total of 20 participants (14 male and 6 female) from 13 countries and COMESA/LLPI was represented by its Programs Coordinator, Mr. Zewdu Kebede.
The workshop had the objective to upgrade the knowledge and skills of participants by providing practical and up-to-date technologies in leather production, quality standards, laboratory testing procedures, and effluent treatment to enhance already acquired knowledge and technical and managerial skills in the leather and leather products industry sector.
During the Workshop, theoretical lectures, discussions and visits to selected tanneries and the Central Effluent Treatment Plant were conducted. Topics of lectures encompassed Leather Production Technologies, Quality Control Techniques in Leather Production, Waste Water Treatment including Physical, Chemical, Biological, Sludge and Chromium Treatment, and Laboratory Practices.
The 32nd International Union of Leather Technologists and Chemist Societies (IULTCS) Congress that was held during the workshop period was also made part of the program. A total of 66 paper presentations and 97 poster presentations were given by scientists, experts and consultants from all over the world during the Congress duration of three days. Major areas of the presentations were:
· Fundamental Research in Leather Technologies,
· Cleaner Innovative Technologies in Leather Making,
· Waste Products and By-Products,
· Use of Advanced Technologies for Leather Analysis,
· Machinery Developments in the Leather Industry and
· Future of Leather Technologies and Environment.
Finally workshop participants found the Workshop worthwhile and expressed their appreciation for the efficient and successful administrative and logistical care of the organizers.