Wool, like everything that people produce and use, affects the environment in some way.
Unlike synthetic materials, which are industrially produced from non-renewable fossil energy, Wool is a 100% natural fiber that is grown all year round by sheep, consuming natural renewable products like solar energy, water, fresh air, grass. Every year sheep grow new fur, so wool is a completely renewable fiber.
Individuals and groups interested in sustainability want to understand how wool affects the world around us and make informed decisions accordingly.
Here are some key facts about this highly sustainable fiber:
Sheep are part of the natural carbon cycle, consuming the organic carbon stored in plants and turning it into wool.
The durability of wool products means that they last longer than other textile fibers.
Wool textiles usually are washed less often and at lower temperatures, which naturally has a lower impact on the environment.
Wool is easy to recycle: with a market share of 1.3% of all textile fibers, it accounts for as much as 5% of the recycled fiber market.
Wool is biodegradable both on land and in water. Because wool consists only of natural compounds, it does not contribute to microplastic pollution. Tests show that under the certain conditions, wool products will decompose almost completely within 6 months.