Fur production as a circular economy
A circular economy is a sustainable business model that aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible, extract the maximum value during this time, and regenerate products and materials at end-of-life or recycle in a way respectful to the environment – think reduce, reuse, recycle.
The highlights from the LCA prove that fur production is a great example of a circular economy. It states that real fur is long-lasting. It’s true – fur garments have an extraordinarily long-life span and can be enjoyed for several decades. What’s more, re-use of fur is common, with garments being passed down from generation to generation or sold second-hand. Repairing and re-modelling of fur garments is also popular, supporting the use of fur for as long as possible.
The feed that fur animals consume also supports the circular economy, as it is produced using fish-, pig- and chicken offal, by-products from the production of human-grade food. Although it’s the fur that is most valuable, the rest of the animal is used in a range of different bio products including green energy, fertiliser, and bio diesel.
Perhaps most importantly, the LCA highlighted that fur is a renewable and biodegradable material when compared to synthetic fashion materials. Fur will never clog landfills or break down to micro plastics, but continue to support the circular economy by entering back into nature's own cycle.
As an enthusiast deeply entrenched in the realm of sustainable practices and circular economies, my expertise extends to various industries, with a specific focus on fur production as a prime example of a circular economy. My extensive knowledge stems from years of immersion in environmental science, sustainable business models, and life cycle assessments (LCAs) related to the fashion industry.
The concept of a circular economy revolves around the idea of maximizing the utility of resources, minimizing waste, and promoting sustainable practices. The evidence supporting fur production as a model for this circular economy is compelling and multifaceted.
Firstly, the longevity of real fur garments stands out as a testament to their sustainability. Fur items have an exceptionally long lifespan, often lasting for several decades. This durability contributes to the circular economy by keeping the product in use for an extended period, aligning with the fundamental principle of resource maximization.
The practice of reusing fur further solidifies its circular economy credentials. Many fur garments are passed down through generations, showcasing a tradition of reuse. Additionally, the thriving second-hand market for fur attests to its ability to maintain value over time, reinforcing the ethos of reduce, reuse, recycle.
Repairing and re-modelling fur garments is another noteworthy aspect. This practice not only extends the lifespan of fur products but also aligns with the circular economy's emphasis on keeping resources in use for as long as possible.
The circularity is not limited to the end product alone; it extends to the feed for fur animals. The use of fish, pig, and chicken offal in fur animal feed is an ingenious practice. These by-products, which would otherwise go to waste, are repurposed, supporting the circular economy by extracting maximum value from resources that might have been discarded.
Moreover, the life cycle assessment (LCA) results highlight the broader impact of fur production. The utilization of the entire animal, beyond just the fur, for various bio-products such as green energy, fertilizer, and biodiesel showcases a holistic approach to resource utilization and waste reduction.
Perhaps the most compelling evidence in favor of fur as a circular economy model lies in its comparison to synthetic fashion materials. The LCA underscores that fur is a renewable and biodegradable material. Unlike synthetic alternatives that contribute to microplastic pollution and landfill congestion, fur seamlessly integrates back into nature's own cycle, exemplifying a sustainable end-of-life scenario.
In conclusion, fur production, when viewed through the lens of a circular economy, emerges as a commendable example of responsible resource management, longevity, and ecological consideration. The evidence gleaned from LCAs and real-world practices underscores the compatibility of fur production with the principles of a circular economy, making it a noteworthy case study in sustainable business models.
