BLC is committed to maintaining an internationally leading, innovative, industrially focused leather Research and Development programme for the global leather industry. To remain competitive, the leather industry will need to embrace the latest scientific advances and shape future leather research and development projects accordingly.

BLC is a world leader in the application of microscopy to study skin and leather substrates and this has been exploited through a continuing study of depilation and degreasing processes for improvement in beamhouse technologies.

Developments in tanning and post tanning technology include an investigation into biochemical crosslinking systems and the application of inorganic/organic hybrid technology for dyeing and finishing processes.  A strong emphasis is placed on environmental issues important to the leather industry, for example water recycling, clean technologies and solid waste management through novel gasification technology and the production of biofuels.

BLC will continue to develop collaborations with the worldwide leather producing community and other industries to advance the Research and Development activities. This will include basic and applied research and also practical training and demonstration activities.