Researchers in Karnataka have successfully transformed fish skin, a waste product from the fishing industry, into eco-friendly leather, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional leather production. This innovative approach not only addresses the environmental concerns associated with conventional leather manufacturing but also creates new economic opportunities for fishing communities. The research, led by the Department of Fish Processing Technology at the College of Fisheries in Mangaluru, under the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University Bidar, focused on utilizing fish skin that typically ends up as waste after fish fillet production.
The team, supervised by Professor Manjanaik Bojayanaik, has developed a method to produce high-quality leather from fish skin, demonstrating that skins from several fish species can be converted into durable, value-added products. The research highlights the potential of fish skin leather to support a circular economy by reducing waste and lowering the environmental impact of leather production. Professor Bojayanaik emphasizes that this initiative not only tackles fish processing waste but also generates new income opportunities for fishing communities.
The researchers examined the skins of approximately 10 to 15 fish species, identifying Malabar grouper, cobia, catfish, melegu, and cynic grouper as particularly suitable for eco-friendly leather production. These fish skins are relatively thick and strong, making them ideal for conversion into durable leather products. The team also tested skins from spinycheek grouper and unicorn leatherjacket. The unicorn leatherjacket fish typically ranges from 47 to 59cm in length and weighs between 0.7kg and 1.3kg. Characterized by a highly compressed body covered with rough-textured scales, the fish is primarily used for fillet production, generating substantial quantities of skin waste.
The conventional leather industry relies heavily on animal hides from sources like cows, sheep, camels, and crocodiles. Traditional leather processing involves the use of harmful chemicals such as chromium, posing risks to human health, causing environmental pollution, and consuming large amounts of water. In contrast, the fish skin leather technology developed by the Mangaluru researchers significantly reduces the use of harmful chemicals and water, presenting a more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative. The College of Fisheries in Mangaluru has come up with a sustainable method to convert fish skin into chrome-free eco-friendly leather. The study focused on standardizing leather production from the skin of unicorn leatherjacket using chrome-free tanning methods.
Dakshina Kannada district, known for its strong fishing industry, generates substantial fish waste from processing units. By utilizing this fish skin waste, products like key chains, purses, belts, and other daily-use items can be manufactured. This initiative is expected to provide a fresh impetus to small and cottage industries, create new livelihood opportunities, and reduce dependence on animal leather, while also adding value to what was previously considered waste. According to Naik, around 35 to 40% of a fish ends up as waste.
The research has gained international recognition, with the research paper accepted for publication in the prestigious Springer Nature journal. This acknowledgment highlights the scientific merit and societal relevance of the work. The team of eight researchers worked continuously on the project for nearly five years. This development marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and ethical approach to leather production, benefiting both the environment and fishing communities.
