What is organic wool?
Organic wool, certified by GOTS or OEKO-Tex, is the ethical and sustainable alternative to traditional wool production. It has three major benefits – for the environment, for animal welfare and for human health and wellbeing.
Firstly, the use of chemicals is carefully restricted both in the agricultural stage and in the fibre processing stage, which means that all textiles must meet strict requirements for environmental safety. This limits toxic residues running off into water systems, and helps protect soil health. Plus, with organic wool, sheep are fed mainly through grazing, which helps fertilise the land and encourage biodiversity, while the remainder of their diet is 100% organic feed.
When it comes to our four-legged friends, fortunately organic wool also helps support better animal welfare standards. Organic certifications ensure that sheep reared for their wool must be allowed to roam and graze freely with plenty of outdoor space in their natural habitat; much more humane conditions than exploitative factory farms. Wellbeing is the number one priority for organic sheep farmers, with food, shelter and transport all considered carefully to minimise stress and discomfort. Additionally, diseases are treated with a preventative approach, avoiding excessive routine treatment with antibiotics and pesticides.
Last but not least, organic wool is claimed to be better for human health. Because of the restrictions on chemical use, organic clothing avoids the toxic residues of traditional fabric production that can cause allergies, rashes, carcinogenic effects, respiratory problems and even nervous system damage. Without a doubt, organic wool is a smarter choice choice for people, animals, and for the planet.
Where to buy organic wool clothing
Unfortunately, fashionable products made from organic wool are few and far between. A quick google will show you that the market is largely dominated by babywear, although there are a handful of ethical fashion brands designing knitwear made from organic fibres. Organic cotton is a buzzword everywhere you look in the sustainable space, but it seems like organic wool is yet to have it’s turn in the fashion limelight. If sourcing wool from organic-certified farms is your priority (and ethical fashion is all about setting our own priorities), take a little look at the brands below: