THE 1994 JOHN-ARTHUR-WILSON-MEMORIAL-LECTURE - TREATMENT OF INDUSTRIAL-WASTES OF THE LEATHER INDUSTRY - IS IT STILL A MAJOR PROBLEM

This paper aims to show the significant measures that have been taken to manage and treat industrial residues generated by tanneries, as well as corresponding challenges which can be foreseen. Legislation and regulations which have been issued in relation to liquid, solid and airborne wastes are presented, as well as qualitative and quantitative characterization of leather industry emissions. Several alternatives to purify liquid effluents are described in some detail, covering preliminary, physical-chemical, biological and tertiary treatments. Peculiar aspects and tendencies in management of tannery industrial residues, which are being observed nowadays in many countries, are also shown. It is possible to conclude both that development of the leather industry in harmony with the environment is a definite reality and that permanent attention has to be given to the subject.