Sustainable Management of Solid Chrome Waste in the Tanning Industry

Resumen

The tanning sector currently faces the urgent challenge of mitigating its environmental
footprint, particularly due to the generation of chrome solid waste (SSD) during production
processes. In the case study analyzed, this waste is disposed of without prior treatment,
generating a significant ecological impact. This research proposes innovative solutions to
reduce associated pollution and generate added value from waste. A technical and
environmental assessment was conducted at the tanning stage, specifically in the splitting
and sizing operations, the main sources of SSD generation. This allowed for a detailed
physicochemical characterization of the leather scrape, precise quantification of generated
volumes, and the assessment of specific environmental impacts. The proposed solutions
represent a replicable model for the industry, combining environmental responsibility with
economic profitability. This circular approach transforms an environmental problem into a
sustainable business opportunity.