Social Impact of Using Banners for Corporate Merchandise: Facts & Figures by 3.14BAN
Today, companies are increasingly focusing on the sustainability and social impact of their products. One innovative solution is using banners to create corporate merchandise. Below is a detailed overview of the social impact of using banners compared to traditional leather products.
1. Water consumption.
Leather products: According to the Water Footprint Network, up to 17,000 litres of water are used to produce one kilogram of leather. One kilogram of leather can be used to make three medium-sized products, such as wallets, each of which requires approximately 5,667 litres of water. This is a significant amount of resource, especially in the context of the global water crisis.
Products made from banners: Using banners as a recycled material avoids additional water consumption. Unlike leather production, upcycling does not require an additional water footprint, making it an environmentally friendly option.
2. CO2 emissions
Leather: Leather production is associated with significant CO2 emissions. The FAO estimates that for every kilogram of leather processed, up to 80 kg of CO2 emissions are produced. This includes the processes of transport, raw material handling and product manufacturing.
Banners: Recycling banners to create corporate merchandise can reduce CO2 emissions by around 50%. As banners already exist as waste, their reuse does not require intensive processing, which reduces the carbon footprint.
3. Land use
Leather: It takes up to 7 hectares of land to produce one kilogram of beef, which is used to make leather. Large areas are used to grow fodder crops and graze livestock, leading to deforestation. According to the WWF, about 2.7 million hectares of forests are deforested annually to expand livestock production.
Banners: The use of banners as a secondary material does not require new land resources. This allows us to preserve natural ecosystems, maintaining biodiversity and minimising interference with nature.
4. Recycling and waste
Leather: The leather industry produces toxic waste. Chemicals such as chromium and formaldehyde are used to treat leather, which can lead to water and soil pollution. According to EWG, more than 80% of leather products are treated with harmful substances.
Banners: Recycling banners helps reduce the amount of plastic in landfills. Each square metre of recycled banner contributes to reducing plastic waste, which reaches 300 million tonnes annually according to UNEP.
5. Fair working conditions
The leather industry: According to Human Rights Watch, many workers in the leather industry face unsafe working conditions and low wages, especially in developing countries. Only about 10% of workers have access to protection when working with chemicals.
Banner upcycling: Banner upcycling can support local initiatives that ensure fair working conditions and transparent payment terms. In Ukraine, the creation of banner merchandise can also contribute to the development of local businesses and artisans.
6. Availability and price
Leather: The cost of leather products is higher due to the complexity of the production process. A single leather wallet can cost between $50 and $150, depending on the quality of the leather and the brand.
Banners: Banner products are more affordable due to the recycled nature of the material. Their cost can be 30-50% lower, making them attractive to companies looking for unique accessories at an affordable price.
The social impact of using banners for corporate merchandise is significant compared to traditional leather use. A low water footprint, reduced CO2 emissions, minimized land usage, avoidance of toxic waste, and support for fair labor conditions are just some of the benefits of upcycling banners. For companies looking to reduce their ecological footprint and create positive social impact, choosing banners is an optimal solution.