Let us bring to our attention the pressing issue of the declining wool market and its impact on sheep farmers and the clothing industry
Foto: Erik Kistovs
As the wool market in Northern Europe continues to decline, sheep farmers are left with no choice but to bear the brunt of the economic and environmental impacts. The cost of shearing has become an added expense for farmers, who are finding it increasingly difficult to sell their wool. Some farmers have gone up to four years without making a sale, and the unused wool may end up in landfills as there is currently no market for it.
This downturn in the wool market has not only affected farmers, but also the wool clothing industry. Woolen clothing, which already requires careful maintenance due to its vulnerability to decay (moths) and shrinkage (washing machine), is becoming less popular and harder to sell. The loss of this natural and beautiful material would be a shame, as it has been cherished for generations by those who appreciate its softness, warmth and durability.
To preserve the legacy of wool and other natural fabrics, we must take action. One such step is to support companies like Percolenti, which offers a classical collection of clothing made from natural materials. Let's save the woolen clothing and honor the sheep that have provided us with their soft, warm and beautiful coats, and letÅ› honor the mothers, aunts and grandmothers who tirelessly knitted their designs day and night for their children, nieces and grandchildren.
Note: there are some sheep farmers mistreating their cattle very badly and in the past five years this has become noticed and animal protection has intervened in those cases, by closing some farms.Of course we do not want to buy any wool anymore these bad farmers
It is disheartening to learn about the financial and environmental consequences that farmers are facing because of this downturn. It is also concerning to know that some farmers are mistreating their cattle, and we don not want to support unethical practices.
However, we must also acknowledge the importance of preserving the woolen heritage of our mothers and grandmothers, and the value that wool brings to our lives. To do so, we can take several steps:
- Buy and preserve second hand woolen clothes, often made with love and creativity. Many times they are even unica.Lets collect clothing that is made from natural materials and ethical practices. By choosing to buy from these companies, you can help create demand for woolen clothing and support farmers who prioritize animal welfare.
- Educate ourselves about the different types of wool and their origins. By being informed consumers, we can make more conscious decisions about where we source our wool from and ensure that we are not supporting unethical practices.
- Take care of our woolen clothing properly. By following the care instructions, we can prolong the life of our woolen garments and reduce the need for frequent replacements.
- Explore alternative uses for wool. Wool can be used for various purposes beyond clothing, such as insulation, carpeting, and even art. By finding new ways to use wool, we can create demand for the material and support farmers who produce it.
By taking these steps, we can honor the legacy of wool and our skillful mothers and grandmothers that tirelessly made and cherished the garments. Let us continue to appreciate the softness, warmth, and durability of this natural material, while also advocating for ethical and sustainable practices in its production.
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