Boycott ‘Exotic’ Crocodile & Alligator Leathers (alternative choices)
Love crocodiles? You’d likely be scared if one tried to eat you. But like all creatures, they are part of the natural ecosystems of the world, just like smaller alligators. But they suffer terribly for the fashion trade, often made into leathers for bags and shoes.
Read our posts on the best brands of sustainable vegan handbags and quality vegan shoes.
Crocodiles are prehistoric semi-aquatic reptiles that have been around for over 200 million years! They have the strongest bite of any creature (3.5 more than lions), and up to 100 teeth which they replace up to 4000 times in a lifetime. No wonder they look scary (although baby crocs are very cute!)
However by ratio of how many humans kill other humans, they only eat to live (they’re not greedy). They swallow prey whole, and regulate body temperature by opening their mouths (that’s why they always have their mouths open – tiny birds also clean their teeth, a beneficial partnership!)
Despite their size, crocodiles can jump over 30 feet and have skin that can detect water ripples, so can hunt in darkness, even though they are not nocturnal. Like most wild creatures, they are very protective (female crocs will carry hatchlings to the water in their jaws). Saltwater crocodiles can live over 70 years.
Alligators (smaller and slightly less fierce!)
Wild alligators also eat meat, but they also eat fruit, so are technically omnivores. They are smaller than crocodiles, and are essential to ecosystems as they provide ‘gator holes’ that provide water for other creatures.
In the late 60s, alligators were an endangered species in the USA (they mainly live in the Deep South and Florida’s Everglades) due to conservation efforts. Which is why it’s so sad that now their skins are used for the fashion industry.
Why boycott crocodile and alligator leathers?
Here at England, Naturally – we give you the basics to educate, inform and empower. But refuse to show horrible images as that just traumatises all of us, and then we can’t work.
There are heroes out there doing the work of investigative welfare, so we focus on the alternatives to replace, so there is no market. To put it bluntly, the methods used are horrific. So please never buy any kind of exotic (or other) leather. Just stick to vegan alternatives.
Brands to boycott:
- Hermès
- Louis Vuitton
- Gucci
- Versace
It would also be good if some of the world’s most glamourous rich celebrities did not wear them. There’s no need, and they are doing our croc and alligator friends a huge disservice by promoting such cruelty.
Why choose vegan croc leathers?
Because they look just the same, are more sustainable and are kind to both creatures. Vegan leathers are also better for the planet, as there are no chemicals to tan the leather (which pollutes waterways and also carries higher cancer risk for tannery workers).
How to clean sustainable vegan handbags
To clean vegan handbags, wipe marks with a damp cloth (to remove oil stains, apply a little baking soda to absorb). Remove ink or make-up stains with a cotton bud dipped in rubbing alcohol. Dry wet handbags in the shade (avoid direct sun or heat)
Where to donate unwanted handbags
Donate unwanted handbags to small charity shops (that don’t test on animals). You can place damaged or frayed handbags in textile banks. The materials are shredded to make insulation and other industrial goods.
Will’s vegan mock croc shoes!
Will’s Vegan Shoes offers mock croc shoes, sold with a 365 day guarantee, in zero waste packaging.
These are not cheap, but then neither are any luxury shoe brands. These are designed to offer an alternative to people who would buy expensive designer footwear.
Where to buy wholesale vegan croc leather fabrics
Croc Clay is a collection of vegan hide leathers in 8 colours, to resemble crocodile versions for interior design. They will be chomping their giant gnashers together in joy! Find local stockists online.
Altfield London also offers faux crocodile leather, which can also be used for luxury walling for commercial use.
