Ethical elegance meets circular economy: Cartiera crafts fashion with purpose in Italy

In the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, an ethical fashion lab is stitching together environmental responsibility and social inclusion. Cartiera, launched in 2017, redefines luxury by producing high-end leather and fabric accessories using surplus materials from the fashion and automotive industries while empowering people in vulnerable situations.

With its atelier based in the former Burgo paper mill in Lama di Reno, Cartiera blends Made in Italy craftsmanship with a mission for positive change. Over 20 tonnes of high-quality leather, originally destined for disposal, have already been upcycled into new fashion pieces. But Cartiera’s commitment goes far beyond materials-at its core is the belief that work is a tool for personal autonomy, growth, and dignity.

Since its founding, the initiative has provided training to over 115 people in leatherworking, hosted 21 internships, and secured employment for 15 individuals through fixed-term and permanent contracts. Many of these workers are refugees or asylum seekers, now finding purpose, stability, and opportunity through meaningful work.

Cartiera’s growing reputation has attracted strong partnerships. Two of Italy’s most prestigious fashion houses-Gucci and Fendi Roma-now regularly supply their leather offcuts to the lab. In a pioneering collaboration with Automobili Lamborghini, Cartiera repurposes supercar seat leather scraps into elegant accessories, which the brand reintroduces through its e-commerce platforms.

More than a production site, Cartiera is a model for a just and inclusive ecological transition. As part of the broader “City of Knowledge and Research” integrated plan, co-funded by Italy’s PNRR (National Recovery and Resilience Plan), Cartiera is helping to revitalise former industrial zones and build a future rooted in sustainability and solidarity.

By combining craftsmanship, circular economy, and social justice, Cartiera is showing that ethical fashion can be both beautiful and transformative.

❤️ Like  Show your support for this Green Skills Award FOP Finalist!