SUSTAINABILITY
Commitment to the Environment and to People
OUR MISSION
The Path Towards a Zero-Impact Industry
As a key part of Leather Cluster Barcelona, IDR has led the transformation of the leather sector toward a more sustainable industry.
The wastewater treatment plant in Igualada, which currently treats the wastewater from 26 companies, is a pioneering model in Europe. Its advanced biological system significantly reduces both water consumption and the pollutant load associated with leather processing.
IMPACT IN FIGURES
Our results from the beginning to the present
Thanks to this partnership, water consumption per unit produced has been reduced by 50%, and the pollutant load has also been cut by 50% over the past 20 years.
This collaborative model has enabled IDR's partner companies to become greener and more competitive, setting a new standard of excellence in the tanning industry.
Looking ahead, we continue to innovate and explore circular economy models to move towards an increasingly efficient and environmentally responsible industry.
50%
reduction in water consumption per unit produced over the past 20 years
50%
reduction in pollutant load over the past 20 years
26
companies treat their wastewater at IDR
IDR enables wastewater from leather industry companies to contribute to sustainability efforts, driving a more environmentally responsible industry.
LIFE CYCLE
The Sustainable Life Cycle of Leather
Commitment to the Circular Economy
At IDR, we are committed to the circular economy as the foundation for sustainable development. Tanners recover hides—byproducts of meat consumption, the main protein source for over 90% of the global population—and recycle them to prevent waste. These hides are transformed into elegant, noble, and useful products for society, contributing to sustainability through their durability and by being both biodegradable and compostable.
Byproduct Valorization
For centuries, tanners have recovered this byproduct of the food industry and recycled it into high-value sustainable consumer goods. This practice not only reduces waste but also promotes responsible use of resources.
Path Towards Zero Waste
Catalan tanners, members of Leather Cluster Barcelona, remain committed to the zero-waste model. The cluster drives several initiatives to optimize the valorization of byproducts and reduce waste generated throughout the entire production process within the leather industry's value chain.
SUSTAINABILITY AT THE PLANT
The Treatment Plant's Sustainable Commitment
At IDR, our commitment to sustainability is reflected not only in our water treatment technology but also in the internal practices we adopt to minimize our environmental impact and ensure a safe and responsible working environment.
Renewable Energy
100% of the energy we consume comes from renewable sources, and we operate our own solar panel system to enhance energy efficiency.
Reduction in Chemical Use
Our biological treatment process optimizes the use of microorganisms to replace chemical agents, with the goal of minimizing environmental impact and promoting more sustainable and eco-friendly solutions.
Environmental Audits
We conduct regular environmental audits and maintain certifications to ensure our practices meet the highest standards of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Occupational Safety and Risk Prevention
We take worker safety very seriously, with strict protocols in place to guarantee a safe working environment and full compliance with all health and safety regulations.
Environmental Certifications and Audits
At IDR, in collaboration with Tradebe, we manage the treatment plant according to the highest environmental standards, with a clear focus on sustainability.
Our audits and certifications demonstrate our dedication to upholding best practices in sustainability, innovation, and safety across all our services.
ISO 9001:2015: Quality in the Treatment of wastewater and non-hazardous liquid waste
- Efficiency and safety in treatment processes.
- Environmental and safety regulatory compliance.
- Customer satisfaction through quality services.
- Continuous improvement and constant adaptation.
ISO 14001:2015: Environmental management in the Treatment of wastewater and non-hazardous liquid waste
- Minimization of environmental impact in treatment processes.
- Environmental and regulatory compliance.
- Proactive management of natural resources and waste.
- Continuous improvement in environmental efficiency.
ISO 45001:2018: Occupational health and safety in the Treatment of wastewater and non-hazardous liquid waste
- Safe and healthy working conditions for our employees.
- Compliance with occupational health and safety regulations.
- Occupational risk prevention through proactive management.
- Continuous improvement in operational safety.
100% sustainable energy use certificate
At our treatment plant, we are committed to sustainability and respect for the environment. Thus, all our energy comes from 100% renewable sources. The CNMC officially certifies that we use exclusively clean energy, reflecting our commitment to reducing environmental impact.
