Current treatment and recycling processes of industrial waste from tanneries in Ecuador and the world

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the recycling and reuse processes of the waste generated by tanneries in Ecuador and the world. High-impact publications and government databases were used to gather relevant information on the topic and, thus, achieve the objective of the study. Several recycling and reuse processes of tannery solid waste were identified, including the production of adhesives, collagen, gelatin, amino acids, biofuels, biogas, and leather lubricants. Additionally, it was found that it is possible to recover chromium salts from wastewater and reuse them. The study also revealed that countries like India, Bangladesh, and China, the primary producers of leather, apply advanced recycling technologies in their tanneries. In contrast, countries like Italy, Germany, and Spain focus more on the chemical conversion of tannery solid waste. In Ecuador, there is a lack of publications on tannery waste recycling, and the few available ones focus on the reuse of trimmings, leather scraps, and the extraction of keratin from residual hair. This lack of interest in proper waste management in tanneries may be attributed to informality and the country's lax enforcement of environmental legislation. In conclusion, it is crucial to regulate the tannery industry sector in Ecuador and promote recycling and reuse processes that will bring economic benefits and sustainability to these industries. This study highlights the need to improve waste management in Ecuadorian tanneries and follow the example of countries that have implemented advanced recycling technologies.