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ICFA Launches Inaugural Activity and Sustainability Report
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We are pleased to announce the release of ICFA’s first Activity and Sustainability Report. This comprehensive publication highlights our recent achievements in sustainability and provides insight into ICFA’s vision on key industry topics. The report is available in English, French, and Italian and can be accessed in the documentation section of our website: https://internationalcrocodilian.com/media/. We encourage our members to explore this important resource and learn more about ICFA’s commitment to advancing the industry.
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ICFA Showcases at Major Industry Events This September
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LINEAPELLE Fair – Milan, Italy
For the first time, ICFA made a strong impression at Lineapelle in Milan by hosting its own booth. Positioned prominently in Hall 11 near the main entrance, the booth welcomed numerous visitors eager to connect with our farmers and experts.
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ICFA’s stand at the entrance of Hall 11.
Attendees were invited to watch a series of engaging videos that brought ICFA’s activities and achievements to life:
- A look into the egg collection process in Australia’s Northern Territories (Djelk region);
- Informative videos from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, highlighting their conservation program, its impressive results, and the traceability systems in place;
- A newly released ICFA video showing how crocodilian farming makes a positive environmental impact;
- An inspiring story about a local development program in Malawi, co-financed by UNDP, and its benefits for the community.
The ICFA booth was also the setting for a series of insightful presentations by industry experts:
- Dr. Leisha Hewitt delivered a compelling presentation titled “What Do Crocodilians Want?” She shared valuable insights into animal welfare, offering a deeper understanding of crocodilian behavior and needs based on recent studies.
- Dr. Chris Murray presented findings from Southeastern Louisiana University, explaining the ecological benefits of alligators in wetland habitats. As apex predators, alligators play a key role in maintaining ecosystem balance and supporting carbon sequestration.
- Mr. Karl Flowers shared the first results of a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study on American alligator farming in his presentation “Crocodilians Are Swell”. The promising findings position crocodilian farming as a significant contributor to sustainability and the fight against climate change.
- Dr. Dan Natusch, an IUCN conservationist, shared his experience, highlighting how the farming model supports global conservation and local development. He explained how this approach successfully integrates community growth, wildlife conservation, and wetland protection, similar to other regions where ICFA members operate.
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Discussion with Dan Natusch on ICFA stand
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ICFA’s participation at Lineapelle was an exciting opportunity to engage with industry members, raise awareness of our sustainability efforts, and share our vision for conservation and responsible farming. We are proud of the interest and enthusiasm generated and look forward to continuing our work together for a more sustainable future.
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Sustainable Leather Forum – Paris, France
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Grégoire Biasini “pitching” at SLF in Paris, September 9
For the second consecutive year, ICFA participated in the prominent Sustainable Leather Forum, organized by Alliance France Cuir in Paris on September 9. Grégoire Biasini, ICFA’s Communications Officer, took part in the newly established “pitch” session to highlight ICFA’s key achievements. He shared insights into ICFA’s core policies, with a particular focus on animal welfare, and discussed the positive impact of crocodilian farming on local development, conservation efforts, and wetland protection.
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The ICFA family is growing!
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We are delighted to announce the joyous arrival of a new member to the ICFA family. Riccardo Colato of Milan, Italy, and his wife, Rachel, welcomed their baby boy, Achille, on June 22, 2024. The proud parents, along with big brother Sebastiano, are thrilled, and we are happy to report that Rachel and baby Achille are healthy and doing well. Congratulations to the Colato family on this wonderful addition!
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ICFA Member Christen Wall to Ian Oppenlander
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Third-generation alligator farmer Christen Wall of C&M Gator Farm married Ian Oppenlander on May 25, 2024. The couple tied the knot in Ian’s hometown of Madras, Oregon, and held a reception in Louisiana on June 8, 2024. Both Christen and Ian wore stunning alligator boots for the celebrations! The couple met through The National FFA Organization in 2014, where they served as State Presidents for Louisiana and Oregon. Their shared love for farming brought them together and will continue to be a central part of their lives as they pursue careers in agriculture. Congratulations to the Oppenlanders!
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ICFA Board Member Christy Plott to Trey Gilmore
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Congratulations on marriage of ICFA board member Christy Plott of American Tanning and Leather LLC to Trey Gilmore, which took place on June 8, 2024, in Griffin, Georgia. Christy and Trey met through their mutual passion for the leather industry, where Trey serves as the Men’s Designer for Lucchese Bootmaker. The ceremony was a celebration of love and shared dedication to their craft. The reception was held at the tannery. Congratulations to Christy and Trey on their union!
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Other
Following a presentation made by ICFA at Sup de Luxe school, in Paris, the MBA students published a “livre blanc” in which one page is dedicated to ICFA’s policies and results.
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