Brands & retailers can responsibly use animal-based materials: Survey

27 Apr '21

2 min read

Pic: Shutterstock

A poll conducted by Natural Fibers Alliance found that 61 per cent of consumers agree or strongly agree that brands and retailers can responsibly use animal-based materials such as leather, wool, fur and silk. About 62 per cent of the public would consider purchasing fur that was certified humane and sustainable, while only 16 per cent would not.

Close to 60 per cent of Americans surveyed believe that brands and designers should be allowed to use real fur, while only 12 per cent do not, as per the polling data released by the Natural Fibers Alliance during the Fashion Revolution Week held last week.

Some brands have announced plans to phase out real fur in favour of faux fur. Yet these pledges cut against public sentiment on the use of real fur, as well as societal trends towards sustainability. Synthetic plastic-based textiles like faux fur are a leading cause of oceanic pollution. Continuation of current production and waste management trends is projected to result in about 12 billion tons of plastic waste in landfills or across natural environments by 2050, said Natural Fibers Alliance in a press release.

"Plastic isn't fashionable in 2021," said Mike Brown, head of sustainability and communications for the Natural Fibers Alliance. "Responsible designers and retailers should support the public's desire for sustainability by increasing their use of sustainable natural textiles. We look forward to continued conversation with Saks, Macy's and other major retailers and brands who want to learn the facts."

The poll of 1,000 adults was conducted between March 29-31, 2021 by the Natural Fibers Alliance, an environmental justice coalition that represents the interests of wool, leather, fur and other naturally produced materials.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (KD)

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