Abstract: The strategic goal of "dual carbon" is a powerful action of China in response to climate change, which is not only a new opportunity but also a great challenge for the traditional leather industry with high energy consumption and emission. This paper discusses the green low-carbon development and digital transformation paths of the leather industry toward "dual carbon" goals from diverse perspectives, including energy consumption structure, energy-saving and emission reduction processes, digital transformation of leather industry, construction of industrial internet, technological innovation and talent cultivation. The key emerging technologies for achieving these goals are proposed based on the authors’ pioneer work in this field. Meanwhile, the authors expound on the profound significance of the new round of sci-tech revolution and industrial transformation for high-quality sustainable leather industry. The importance of collaborative innovation is also highlighted for this prominent purpose.

Key words: leather industry, green and low carbon, digital transformation, dual carbon goals