Natural fur is a sustainable fashion material which can be absorbed back into nature's own cycle through biodegradation. A renewable resource with outstanding thermal qualities, natural fur also have much less impact on landfills and oceans than synthetic alternatives, which are made from plastics. Synthetic textiles such as polyester still make up the lion's share of the global textile market, and while the production of plastics is a major contributor to greenhouse gasses, the plastic pollution itself has become a major threat to the ecosystem.
natural fur is biodegradable
We had the the biodegradation qualities of fur tested in a professional lab
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Fur in the circular economy
The circular economy is a business model aimed at ensuring sustainability.
A circular economy is an alternative to a traditional linear economy (make, use, dispose) in which we keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value from them whilst in use, then recover and regenerate the products and materials.
The production of fur is completely circular. Here is why:
- Fur animals feed on waste products from the production of human food, specifically fish, pig and chicken offal.
- The whole animal is used. Carcasses and fat from the fur production are utilised for a range of different bio products, including green energy, fertiliser, cosmetic products and bio diesel.
- Fur garments have an extraordinarily long life-span and are often worn for several decades.
- The re-use of fur through second hand sales is widespread. Similarly, the repairing and re-modelling of fur garments ensures the use of fur for as long as possible.
- Fur is a renewable and biodegradable material. Unlike synthetic fashion materials fur will not clog landfills or break down to micro plastics, but rather enter back into nature's own cycle.Old fur apparel can even be composted for your garden.
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As an expert on sustainable fashion and materials, I would like to underscore the importance of evidence-based discussions on the topic. In the provided article, the focus is on natural fur as a sustainable fashion material compared to synthetic alternatives. The information is well-supported by evidence, including lab tests and references to ongoing discussions and initiatives related to sustainability in the fashion industry.
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Natural Fur as Sustainable Material:
- The article emphasizes that natural fur is a renewable resource with outstanding thermal qualities. It claims that natural fur is biodegradable, and this claim is supported by lab tests conducted by Organic Waste Systems (OWS), a professional lab, confirming the biodegradation qualities of fur in landfill conditions without air flow. This evidence supports the idea that natural fur can be absorbed back into nature's own cycle through biodegradation.
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Impact of Synthetic Alternatives:
- The article contrasts natural fur with synthetic alternatives, highlighting that synthetic textiles, such as polyester, contribute to plastic pollution in landfills and oceans. It connects the production of plastics to greenhouse gas emissions, reinforcing the negative environmental impact of synthetic materials.
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Slow Fashion and Circular Economy:
- The concept of slow fashion is introduced, emphasizing the shift towards sustainable practices in the fashion industry. The circular economy model is explained as an alternative to the traditional linear economy, promoting the longevity and reuse of products. The article argues that natural fur fits into the circular economy, as fur production involves using the whole animal, and fur garments have a long lifespan, often worn for several decades.
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EU's Focus on Sustainable Textiles:
- The article mentions the European Commission's strategy for textiles, part of the Circular Economy Action Plan, aiming to make textile and clothing supply chains more sustainable. It raises concerns about the environmental impact of synthetic materials and advocates for a shift towards bio-based and biodegradable materials.
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LVMH's Commitment to Sustainable Fur:
- The article highlights the efforts of LVMH, a luxury conglomerate, in using 100% certified mink, fox, and finnraccoon pelts. LVMH's commitment to sustainable sourcing, animal welfare, and traceability is discussed, positioning natural fur as a strategic material with positive environmental impact and biodegradability.
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COVID-19 Impact on Fur Industry:
- The article briefly touches on the impact of COVID-19 on the fur industry, specifically mentioning the development of a corona vaccine for mink and Finnraccoon to prevent the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in agriculture and the fur industry.
In conclusion, the provided article discusses the sustainability of natural fur in the context of slow fashion, circular economy, and the broader fashion industry's move towards environmentally friendly practices. The evidence presented, including lab tests, industry initiatives, and the stance of organizations like the European Commission, supports the claim that natural fur can be a sustainable fashion material when sourced and produced responsibly.