One of the age-old questions when it comes to fashion in North America and Europe is whether fur is a suitable and savvy clothing choice. Supporters say that fur is an effective way to use naturally occurring resources whereas opponents believe that human-made substitutes are more ethical and fit for a progressing world. It can be challenging to sort out your own stance on the hairy debate, so we’ve collected some facts and benefits of natural furs to help.
- Accessible. So, you like the look of fur but don’t want to pay top dollar for fancy goods at the most expensive stores? Be sure to check out your local thrift or secondhand stores to see what items you can reclaim and recycle into your own personal wardrobe. Respect the service of the animal, keep the item out of landfills and stay warm in the winter all at once!
- Ancestral. The practice of using furs for practical reasons like clothing, shelter and trade has been woven into cultures all across the globe. Honoring the tradition of using animal furs can be key to unlocking a deeper cultural understanding and respecting customs of international communities.
- Biodegradable. Furs are made of naturally occurring materials and because of this, they decompose quicker than human-made, largely petroleum-based substitutes. Consequently, they spend less time in landfills and leech fewer harmful chemicals into the soil during the decomposition process.
- Ethical. There’s a reputation that animal furs come from a harmful practice, but in North America at least, that is no longer the case. Though trapping and hunting in the United States, Canada and other areas historically occurred unchecked, and though there could be clandestine unethical fur farms in operation, state and international laws along with improved company standards ensure that the use of furs is ethical and humane.
- Long lasting. Unlike synthetic materials that can easily fall apart, real animal furs can last for generations, especially when properly cared for. This “slow fashion” is a sustainable alternative to the speedy industry that brings clothes to people fast, but with adverse effects to the environment as a result.
- Sustainable. Most importantly, harvesting animals for their fur is highly managed by law and regulation. These assurances make it a sustainable practice and ensure that it’s conducted to maintain the long-term health of animal populations.
Though there are definite benefits and drawbacks to each kind of fur, we hope that this information helps you form your own idea on the topic and learn a little more about the world of fur along the way!