A landmark collaborative research study titled "Sustainable Innovation in Leather Goods and Accessories Design: A Study of Eco-Friendly Materials and Processes" bearing ISSN:1526-4726, was published in a high-ranking Scopus Q1 ABDC journal on 25th July (2025) at pg.795 – 798, Volume 05, Issue 03, 2025.
The study was co-authored by Mr. K. Elayaraja, Senior Faculty - Footwear Design and Production (FDP), FDDI, Hyderabad Campus, Dr. Rambabu Muppidi, Faculty, Leather Goods & Accessories Design (LGAD), FDDI, Hyderabad Campus and Mr. Vishva Kumar, Faculty - FDP, FDDI, Chennai Campus along with professors from Anna University and the Central Leather Research Institute, Chennai.
This multidisciplinary research explores the impact of eco-friendly materials like vegetable-tanned leather, recycled leather, and bio-leather on the future of sustainable product design.
Using a mixed-method approach including design prototyping, material testing, and interviews with sustainable brands, the study identifies key benefits and limitations in applying these innovations.
Findings underscore how bio-based alternatives and ethical tanning methods contribute to reduced environmental impact, while highlighting challenges related to durability, consumer acceptance, and scalability. The research proposes a practical design framework integrating circular design principles, material science, and ethical manufacturing.
