“Sustainability is not just part of our business model, it is intertwined with every aspect of our operations. We have taken important steps in the field of renewable energy and made significant investments to run our operations in a way that significantly reduces our carbon footprint.”
As Magazine Leather, we are publishing our interview on “LEATHER TANNING AND SUSTAINABILITY” with Mr. Cesar ROSA, CEO of CURTUMES IBÉRIA S.A. company operating in the field of leather tanning in Portugal:
Mr. Cesar ROSA, first of all we would like to get to know you?
Firstly, I’m honored to have this opportunity to share a bit about myself. In my youth, I was deeply involved in athletics, which instilled in me a strong sense of commitment and dedication in everything I undertake. This foundation of discipline and focus has been pivotal throughout my career.
My academic journey took me across the globe, starting with an undergraduate and master’s degree in management. I furthered my education with a postgraduate degree at the University of Berkeley in California, which was an incredibly enriching experience, both academically and culturally. I then completed my master’s in Norway, which offered a unique perspective on business practices and management philosophies.
Before joining Curtumes Ibéria, I had the privilege of working in various capacities in the Netherlands and London, experiences that broadened my understanding of the global market and enhanced my skills in international business management.
For the past 12 years, I have been with Curtumes Ibéria, dedicating myself to the growth and innovation of the company. It’s been a remarkable journey of learning, growth, and a continuous commitment to excellence in the leather industry.
Can we get to know the Curtumes Ibéria S.A. family? And what are their goals?
Curtumes Ibéria S.A. is indeed a family-operated business with deep-rooted traditions and a clear vision for the future. It all started with my grandfather, who laid the foundation for what we are today. My father and my aunt took over the reins and significantly expanded the business. I joined the team later on, continuing the family legacy. My aunt oversees the financial department, ensuring our stability and growth, while my father and I manage the tannery’s operations.
Our primary goal is to develop competitive products that are complemented by exceptional service. We strive for continuous improvement in every aspect of our work, including our capabilities to address environmental challenges. At Curtumes Ibéria, we are committed to innovation and sustainability, aiming to make a positive impact on the leather industry and beyond.
Do you have studies as Curtumes Ibéria S.A. with the entry into force of the “Ecodesign Regulation for Sustainable Products” (ESPR) in the European Parliament? And what do you think about this issue?
Curtumes Ibéria S.A. has always been at the forefront of sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the leather industry. With the ‘Ecodesign Regulation for Sustainable Products’ (ESPR) coming into effect, we see this as an opportunity to further strengthen our commitment to the environment. We are diligently studying the regulation to understand its implications fully and are evaluating our current processes to identify areas for improvement. For instance, we’re exploring more advanced waste management techniques and energy-efficient machinery that align with the ESPR guidelines. Additionally, we’re considering the lifecycle impact of our products more deeply, aiming to enhance their sustainability from production to disposal. We believe regulations like ESPR are vital for pushing the entire industry towards a greener future, and we’re excited to be part of this positive change.
As Curtumes Ibéria S.A., what would you like to say about the leather industry in the Portuguese market?
In the Portuguese leather market, the industry faces its share of challenges, much like the rest of the world. It’s unfortunate, but some tanneries are struggling to navigate these tough times, with a few not making it through. At Curtumes Ibéria S.A., we’ve taken a different path by focusing on growth and adaptability. Our strategy has been to continually adapt to every situation, leveraging innovation and sustainability as our core principles. This approach has not only allowed us to survive but also to thrive in these uncertain times. We remain committed to supporting the broader industry and sharing our learnings to help uplift the entire sector.
Do you participate in international fairs?
Yes, we actively participate in international fairs, including the Lineapelle Fair in Milan. These events are invaluable opportunities for us to showcase our products, connect with industry partners, and stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the leather industry.
Curtumes Ibéria S.A. What are your efforts on sustainability?
At Curtumes Ibéria S.A., sustainability isn’t just a part of our business model—it’s woven into every aspect of our operations. We’ve taken significant strides in renewable energy, making substantial investments to power our operations in a way that significantly reduces our carbon footprint.
Every day, we collaborate with our water treatment partners to refine and improve our water purification process, ensuring the water we return to the environment is as clean as possible. Our commitment here mirrors our broader dedication to reducing ecological impact and bolstering our sustainability endeavors.
We’re champions of recycling, minimizing waste wherever possible in our production process, and continually exploring innovative ways to repurpose our waste materials, which helps us cut down on landfill usage.
Ethical and sustainable sourcing is another cornerstone of our strategy. We carefully select raw materials from suppliers who maintain responsible and sustainable farming practices, thus ensuring our supply chain aligns with our values.
Innovation is another key area of focus for us. We are constantly on the lookout for eco-friendlier materials and continually invest in research and development to find alternatives to traditional tanning chemicals and processes, aiming for methods that are less harmful to our planet.
What would you like to say about Artificial Intelligence and technology in your tannery, automation and technologies?
I’m genuinely excited about the potential of Artificial Intelligence and advanced technologies in the tannery industry. At our company, we view these innovations not as replacements for human craftsmanship, but as powerful tools that augment our capabilities, enhance efficiency, and improve the sustainability of our operations.
Moreover, we’re looking into how these technologies can help us better predict trends and customer needs, enabling us to stay ahead in a highly competitive market. In embracing these technologies, we’re not just investing in the future of Curtumes Ibéria; we’re investing in a future where tradition and innovation coexist, leading to a more sustainable, efficient, and creative leather industry.
As Curtumes Ibéria S.A. family, what would you like to say to the leather industry in the face of vegan, petrochemical products and alternatives? (I asked this question to promote sustainable leather)
I recognize the interest in vegan and synthetic alternatives but firmly believe in the unique value of genuine leather. Unlike petrochemical products, which are not as durable and rely on finite resources, genuine leather is organic, sustainable, and part of a natural cycle. Our focus is on sustainable practices, ensuring responsible sourcing and minimizing environmental impact. Genuine leather, with its unparalleled quality, durability, and sustainability, remains our commitment in promoting a more sustainable leather industry.
Do you have cooperation and activities with universities for international sector employees? (Regarding trained qualified personnel and qualified personnel)
I can share that while we currently do not have formal partnerships with universities for the development of international sector employees, it is indeed an area we are actively working towards. Recognizing the importance of trained and qualified personnel in our industry, we are in the process of establishing collaborations with academic institutions to foster education and training opportunities. These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and industry needs, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to contribute to the leather industry’s future. It’s a priority for us to support and invest in the next generation of talent, and we anticipate announcing specific partnerships and programs in the near future.
Finally, what would you like to say to people who are dedicated to the profession?
I want to extend my deepest appreciation and respect to everyone dedicated to the leather profession. This is not just a job; it’s a craft that requires passion, precision, and a deep respect for tradition while embracing innovation. Your commitment ensures the enduring legacy and continued evolution of our industry.
I urge you to keep fostering your skills, to be curious and embrace new technologies and sustainable practices. The future of leather depends on our collective effort to innovate responsibly while honoring the heritage we’ve inherited. To those in the profession, your work is invaluable. Together, we’re not only preserving a time-honored craft but also shaping a sustainable future for the next generation.
Thank you for your dedication and for contributing your expertise to this noble industry. Keep pushing boundaries, and know that your passion fuels the heart of Curtumes Ibéria and the broader leather community.
Dear Mr. Cesar ROSA, Thank you for the information you provided to Magazine Leather, we wish you good work.
Thank you and I wish you good work.
