Utilizing secure blockchain technology, Jaguar Land Rover aims to ensure complete transparency within the sustainable leather supply chain. In the world’s first initiative, the automaker partnered with three established institutions to trial the use of traceable technology. These institutions include supply chain traceability provider Circulor, UK leather manufacturer Bridge of Weir, and the University of Nottingham.
The digital process enables Jaguar Land Rover to track compliance and monitor the Bridge of Weir’s leather supply network for its carbon footprint. JLR commits towards reducing the environmental and ethical impact of its products by tracing the lowest carbon leather from the farm to the finished article. The brand ensures to offer its customers sustainable and responsible material choices for their vehicle interiors. The interior of Jaguar’s all-electric I-PACE SUV features Kvadrat- a refined, high-quality wool blend textile paired to a suede cloth made from 53 recycled plastic bottles.
The innovative UK-funded research has created a digital twin of the raw material, capable of being tracked via the leather supply chain. Utilizing blockchain technology in combination with GPS data, biometrics, and QR codes allows verifying the leather’s movement. JLR’s global supply chain uses the repeated blueprint of leather created due to the verification process. Other leather-reliant industries like footwear and fashion are capable of utilizing the same technology.
As part of JLR’s Reimagine strategy, the project facilitates a sustainability-rich combination of modern luxury, unique customer experiences, and positive societal impact. Jaguar Land Rover’s Reimagine strategy aims to achieve zero carbon emissions across its supply chain, products, and operations by 2039. In order to improve sustainability, reduce emissions, next-gen technology, data, and software development leadership, JLR will join forces with industry experts.
Jaguar Land Rover via its venture capital and services arm, InMotion, announced an investment in Circulor. This enabled the company to source premium materials with greater transparency along with providing welfare and compliance for suppliers throughout its networks. Since the technology allows for tracing of other commodities, Circulor utilized it to improve the traceability of minerals used for EV batteries. The technology cannot be modified or tampered with, which proves the authenticity of the supply chain and increases customer confidence. This also guarantees the sustainable sourcing of materials via the use of blockchain technology.
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