LEATHER INDUSTRY AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES:

The leather Industry is one of the industries which have effect on the Environment especially if it is not managed properly. In Ethiopia the leather industry is one of the main exports earning and job creation. On the other hand, it has side effects to the environment, as tanneries do not want to include cost for environmental protection, because it increases their cost of production. This research paper assessed the leather Industry and Environmental challenges, the case of HAFPLC which is located in Sebeta municipality administration. The study uses primary and secondary data sources. Survey questionnaires, Interview with key respondents were used while field visit also done to ``Roge’’ villagers and FDG was made with community leaders to have deep understanding of the situation. This research paper reveals that HAFPLC is not complying adequately with the environmental standards set by MoEF, though there is some improvement now. There is an environmental policy, standards and regulation gap according to the findings of this case study. The tannery chemical usage and safety monetary handling system is not found to be reliable. The tannery has primary treatment plant but it had not been operated based on the standards of MoEF