Exotic leather is one of the most sustainable materials in fashion today. Unlike synthetic alternatives, exotic leather does not destroy habitats — it saves them. It ensures thriving ecosystems, protects endangered species, and empowers local communities who depend on these resources for survival.

Exotic Leather: Backed by Science, Not Misguided Activism

For decades, scientists, conservationists, and global organizations have demonstrated how regulated exotic leather trade directly benefits ecosystems and communities. Global treaties like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) create systems that prioritize sustainability, traceability, and strict governance.

Dr. Grahame Webb, the world’s leading crocodilian conservation expert, explains: “Sustainable use programs give wildlife economic value, and when communities benefit, they protect the animals and their habitats. Without these incentives, we see rampant poaching and destruction.”

Meanwhile, initiatives like LVMH’s LIFE 360 project, the International Crocodilian Farmers Association (ICFA), and the Southeast Asia Reptile Conservation Alliance (SARCA) are leading the charge in responsible exotic leather production. These programs prioritize animal welfare, the conservation of species and habitats, promote carbon sequestration, and combat climate change. They represent the cutting edge of sustainability in fashion and beyond.

Conservation Success Stories

The Louisiana alligator management program is a prime example of how sustainable use works. Species recover, habitats are protected, and communities thrive. Once on the brink of extinction, the American alligator was celebrated in 2023 during the United Nations’ World Wildlife Day, honoring the 50th anniversary of CITES. Global experts hailed it as a triumph of sustainable trade, proof that when done right, species thrive, habitats are safeguarded, and entire communities benefit.

The Tana River Basin in Kenya tells a similar story. Before sustainable crocodile farming began in 1997, desperate local communities faced deadly crocodile attacks, livestock losses, and economic ruin, resorting to poisoning crocodiles to survive. That changed when a farm began paying locals to collect crocodile eggs. The poisoning stopped. Livelihoods improved. Crocodile populations rebounded. The farm even provided deep-water wells and livestock fencing — essential infrastructure that transformed lives. Today, crocodiles are flourishing, and so are the people.

Supporting Communities and Livelihoods

Exotic leather trade does not just support conservation efforts, it provides economic stability for some of the world’s most vulnerable people. For rural communities across the globe, from alligator farmers in Louisiana to snake harvesters in Southeast Asia, the exotic leather trade is not a luxury, it’s a lifeline. In regions like Indonesia, sustainable snake harvesting provides the only source of income for families living in extreme poverty. Beyond income, pythons also provide an essential source of protein for these local people, ensuring food security in areas where access to other protein sources is limited. These communities depend on the sale of the snakes they harvest for survival; to feed, educate, and shelter their families.

Dr. Daniel Natusch, a leading python conservation expert, explains: “Banning exotic leathers removes incentives for conservation. Without legal trade, people resort to illegal hunting, habitat destruction, or poisoning animals seen as threats. This ultimately puts species and ecosystems in greater danger, as it dismantles sustainable systems that have protected wildlife and supported livelihoods for decades.”

Ethical Sourcing and Luxury’s Role

Luxury designers already source exotic leather responsibly, meeting some of the strictest animal welfare and environmental standards in the world. Responsible luxury brands today do their homework. They know their supply chains inside and out. In many cases, luxury brands visit their suppliers several times a year and develop meaningful relationships with the people, families, and workers who supply their raw materials. This level of diligence ensures the transparency, ethical practices, and sustainability that consumers demand.

The Future of Sustainability in Fashion

True sustainability is built on science, ethical sourcing, and partnerships between industry, conservationists, and local communities. Exotic leather is not the villain; it’s the lifeline. It protects endangered species, preserves fragile habitats, and sustains countless families. The industry should continue embracing responsible exotic leather sourcing, ensuring that conservation efforts, livelihoods, and biodiversity remain protected for generations to come.

Karen Giberson is the President & CEO of the Accessories Council, a not-for-profit trade organization established in 1994 that represents the fashion accessories, jewelry, footwear, and handbag industry.

Christy Plott Gilmore is a Partner at American Tanning & Leather LLC.

The views expressed in this feature article are those of the authors.