By: Paz Coliguante / Translated by: Adriana Serrano
Sustainability is an issue that continually concerns and occupies the textile industry. Thanks to awareness, fashion consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental impact generated by their consumption, they research and choose natural materials and responsible processes. In this context, Uruguayan wool has positioned itself as an example of sustainable production, which not only promotes the quality of its products, but also respect for the environment and animal welfare.
A model of extensive and friendly production
Uruguay is one of the main wool exporters in the world, with a volume of 25,000 tons exported annually to over 40 countries, with Europe being the main destination. The country stands out as the third largest world exporter of wool in its natural state and the first in Latin America. Its success in the wool industry is no coincidence; it responds to a combination of natural, social, and technological factors.
In this country, wool production is mostly carried out in extensive cattle raising fields, where herds graze freely in the open air throughout the entire year, in harmony with the natural landscape.
This type of grazing not only promotes animal well-being, but also contributes to care of the soil and biodiversity, which guarantees an environmentally friendly production. In addition, sheep produce a renewable fleece every year, making wool into a sustainable fiber that contributes to carbon capture, as half the weight of wool is carbon captured during its growth.
Ethical practices: Animal welfare, technological innovation, and environmental certifications
Uruguay’s commitment to sustainability is also reflected in the strict norms that regulate animal welfare. Sheep breeding and care practices ensure suitable conditions for the animals, which is essential in high quality wool production. Furthermore, wool washing and conditioning processes, such as those carried out in combing mills, use technologies that minimize the environmental impact, such as recycling the water used in washing the fiber.
These practices not only benefit the environment, but are also increasingly valued by international fashion designers and brands, who are looking for sustainable materials for their collections.
The product: High quality thermoregulating wool
Uruguayan wool is known for its exceptional attributes. Its thermoregulatory property, which surpasses other natural and synthetic fibers, makes it an ideal option for year-round garments, providing comfort and temperature regulation. Additionally, it is a recyclable and natural fiber, which makes it more attractive within the framework of slow fashion, a movement that promotes the responsible production and consumption of long lasting garments.
Unlike synthetic fibers, wool does not release polluting microparticles during washing, which significantly reduces the environmental impact. Furthermore, its durability and resistance make wool garments have a long useful life, which encourages recycling and reuse.
An assumed commitment: To be a reference in productive traceability
Sustainability in wool production in Uruguay is an example of how the agricultural and textile sectors can collaborate to create high-quality, environmentally friendly, and ethical products. Through responsible practices, Uruguay has managed to not only position itself as a benchmark in the wool industry, but also as an ideal partner for brands and designers committed to sustainable fashion.
Uruguayan wool is not just a luxury fiber, it is a symbol of responsibility, innovation and environmental awareness in the world of global fashion.
Sources:
https://viviruruguay.com/la-revolucion-sostenible-de-la-lana-uruguaya/
