Chennai, Feb 5 (Reporter) A groundbreaking carbon footprint assessment tool designed to help industrial units quantify their carbon emissions and work towards achieving carbon neutrality was unveiled on Wednesday. The tool aims to enhance industry transparency and enable consumers to make environmentally conscious choices. The assessment tool was unveiled at the CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI), a pioneer in leather research and innovation, annual Leather Research, Industry, Government Conclave (LERIG) held in conjunction with the India International Leather Fair (IILF) 2025 here. This significant gathering focused on strategic advancements for the development of the leather and footwear sector in India, a PIB release said. Highlighting the importance of sustainability in today’s consumer-driven market, Dr B. Madhan, Chief Scientist, introduced the groundbreaking carbon footprint assessment tool designed to help industrial units quantify their carbon emissions and work towards achieving carbon neutrality. Dr. R Aravindhan, Senior Principal Scientist, announced exciting developments during the event, including the introduction of protein fillers derived from chrome shaving waste and innovative specialty chemicals for upholstery leathers. “We believe these advancements will significantly empower our tanning community,” he said. Dr. K J Sreeram, Director of CSIR-CLRI, highlighted the critical need for collaboration between research institutions and industry stakeholders. Rajendra Kumar Jalan, Chairman of the Council for Leather Exports (CLE) and CEO of M/s AFPL Global Pvt. Ltd., emphasized the global market dynamics and the potential for sustainable practices, including water recycling and lean manufacturing. The Technology Compendium of CSIR-CLRI was officially launched during the conclave, with the first copy presented to M Abdul Wahab, Regional Chairman (South), CLE. Distinguished guests, including N Shafeeq Ahmed, President of the South Indian Shoe Manufacturers Association (SISMA), and V Noushad, President of the Confederation of Indian Footwear Industries (CIFI), also shared insights on the importance of aligning with global trends. In a keynote address delivered during the 6th Professor S S Dutta Memorial Lecture, Dr. N Mohan, Director, and CEO of Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd., praised the remarkable growth in the Indian leather and footwear sectors, driven by rising demand for sustainable products. He reinforced the necessity for innovation and efficient supply chains to maintain competitiveness in the industry. The conclave fostered engaging discussions aimed at strengthening partnerships among research institutions and industry stakeholders. These insights are anticipated to propel the leather industry toward a more sustainable and innovative future. In recognition of excellence, the AC Tech Leather and Footwear Alumni Association presented its Orator Award to Dr. K J Sreeram, underscoring the vital role of technologists in enhancing leather's appeal in the market. CSIR-CLRI remains dedicated to forging paths for sustainable practices in the leather sector and is committed to transforming research into impactful industry solutions...////...