Is Fur Ethical?
Posted by Candice Evangeline on 2023 Jan 19th
Do you have a vintage fur hanging in your closet that's been passed down to you? Not sure what to do with it? Have people questioned your ethics for wearing fur?
If you have a vintage fur hanging in your closet, and you're not sure what to do with it - wear it.
Here are a few reasons why vintage fur is eco friendly:
1. It's already here.
You're not killing more animals or adding to the fast fashion dumping pile. Anything reused is an eco friendly option. Fast fashion not only contributes to landfill pollution, but there's a water footprint too. Its estimated that that a single cotton tee shirt can take 2700 litres of water to produce. That's about 2.5 years of drinking water for one human. Polyester that is used for faux fur, not only doesn't last long (it matts and doesn't wash well) but it doesn't break down in a landfill. It's plastic derived from petroleum.
2. It's biodegradable.
When you're eventually done with it, it goes back to where it came from. I'm obsessed with things that biodegrade, which is why I offer biodegradable fabrics in my swimwear.
3. It gets passed on through generations.
Fur lasts lifetimes rather than a season. I have 2 in my closet. Both original owners are deceased but their furs live on. They are classic too - these pieces don't go out of style.
4. Canadian trapping is wildlife conservation
Canadian trapping is heavily focused on wildlife and ecological conservation. Endangered species are never trapped for fur and in fact, fur farming has helped increase the population of certain species, including mink.
Fur farms also generate valuable oils used in medical and cosmetic products. You can read more about this topic via Fur Canada.
Secondary cultural notes about modern fur and Canadian trapping:
1. Fur continues to be a source of income for many northern and Indigenous communities.
Animal welfare advocates are trying to ban fur trapping which not only strips Indigenous communities of their culture and customs, but it also strips the ability to maintain financial stability.
“Harvesting and trading fur and other gifts of nature is our inherent right since ancient times, not a privilege to be bartered or revoked!” - Chief Brian Wadhams, trapper, of the ‘Namgis First Nations.
Source: https://blog.truthaboutfur.com/
2. It is a necessary fibre in the far north.
Inuit use fur and hides primarily due to accessibility and the natural ability to protect in harsh cold climates. Check out a recent clothing contest held in Nunavut - Stunning work!
3. Fur is a renewable resource
Unlike petroleum used in the making of polyester, fur is a renewable and biodegradable fibre.
4. There are many myths that are simply untrue.
No one is skinning a mink alive. Aside from being inhumane, this would destroy a pelt and put the human in danger too. Canadian trapping is heavily focused on animal welfare, preservation of ecosystems and cultural practices that have been in place for 100's of years. Native cultures are very closely knit with mother earth. Inhumane practices would be inconsistent with cultural values.
It is important to remember that we all come from different cultural backgrounds. Canada was built on the fur trade. I am of Metis descent and exist because of the fur trade. I support Indigenous peoples rights to their culture and ability to maintain financial stability. .
You don't need to buy or wear fur, but we can respect one another's choices and cultures. The same way we do with meat.
I respect animals, the earth and peoples rights to cultural preservation. If we continue down the path of unethical and non eco friendly fast fashion, we are consuming high amounts of water and other natural non renewable resources; therefore contributing to pollution and climate change.
We can't be perfect in the pursuit of eco friendly living, but we can each do our part that sits right with us. What can you do to contribute to a greener future?
Want to learn more? Here are some great resources: