Ralph Lauren: world-renowned for iconic fashion, but now also known for a potential shift in its designs and materials. After being called out by animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), the iconic fashion label faces the question: will it change its environmentally unfriendly practices to appease the animal activism organization? To find out, keep reading.
1. PETA Challenges Ralph Lauren to End Use of Cashmere
PETA has recently called out American fashion giant Ralph Lauren to end their use of cashmere. Cashmere is made from the hair of goats found mainly in countries like Mongolia and China, and is a popular fabric used in winter clothing. PETA reports the estimated death toll of millions of goats every year in order to feed the fashion industry’s preference for this luxurious material.
In a public letter, PETA strongly urged Ralph Lauren to cut ties with the unethical and unsustainable cashmere industry and to use 100% synthetic materials. The organization noted the brand’s sustainability commitments and long-standing animal welfare regulations and explained that continued use of cashmere implies contradicting these goals. PETA also stated that new bio-based cashmere isn’t much better in terms of animal welfare standards or sustainability.
- PETA’s stance on the production of cashmere
- Why PETA is calling out Ralph Lauren
2. Cashmere: The Myths and the Realities
Cashmere is rumored to be one of the softest, most luxurious fabrics known to man. This reputation has earned cashmere a price tag that makes it out of reach for many. But what can you really expect from a garment made from cashmere?
To start, you can expect cashmere to be lightweight and incredibly soft. It is also highly insulating and breathable, making it an ideal choice for cold winter days. Plus, due to its unique elasticity, cashmere garments will maintain their shape for a long time. In terms of quality, you can expect well-made cashmere fabrics to last for many years.
But as with any material, there are a few downsides to consider. Here are the myths and realities of cashmere:
- Myth: Cashmere is high maintenance and delicate – Reality: Cashmere requires a good amount of care, however, it is not too delicate to wear and enjoy.
- Myth: Cashmere is scarce and expensive – Reality: Cashmere is readily available and affordable if you shop wisely.
- Myth: Cashmere can’t be worn during summer – Reality: Cashmere is designed to be breathable, so it can be a great choice for summer days.
As you can see, the myths and realities of cashmere can vary depending on the quality of the garment. When shopping for cashmere, be sure to look for quality materials that can stand the test of time.
3. PETA Takes Aim at Cashmere’s Luxury Reputation
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)’s message to the world is clear as crystal: cashmere is unethical. For many lovers of luxury fashion, cashmere is seen as a top choice of natural fiber. But for the animals, it is anything but luxurious.
As a long term animal welfare activist, PETA is slowly but surely taking aim at cashmere’s unique luxurious reputation and driving home the immoral implications of the production of the fabric. They emphasize the fact that animals are exploited in extreme living conditions, and then killed in order for humans to obtain their wool.
- Exploitation – Goats are kept in cramped living conditions and barely given enough food to survive.
- Killing – The goats are then rounded up and killed in cruel and inhumane ways.
- fashion – Cashmere production leads to only one outcome: suffering animals at the hands of humans.
4. Working Towards a Cruelty-Free Future
As the modern world becomes more conscious of the effects of its actions on the environment and its inhabitants, many companies and organizations are working towards a cruelty free future. This future not only encompasses animal welfare, but the welfare of all living creatures, from human beings to plants and microscopic organisms. Here are a few ways the cruelty-free future is being attained:
- Alternatives to Animal Testing: Organizations and companies have developed an array of animal alternatives for testing and research, such as computer simulations, human tissue testing, and in vitro testing. These alternative methods provide the same rigorous testing that animal testing does, without the harm.
- Industry Regulations: Various government agencies have implemented regulations on animal testing and use of animal products. These regulations are heavily enforced and help ensure humane standards are being met.
These methods, and more, have led to a future that is truly cruelty-free. Companies are becoming more mindful of the materials they use to create their products, and the treatments they use to care for the animals used to make them. We live in a time where progress is being made every day. We are one step closer to a future of animal cruelty-free living.
So it remains to be seen whether Ralph Lauren will take PETA’s advice and move away from cashmere or continue to use the material. Either way, it’s clear that the conversation around animal welfare and the fashion industry is only increasing and the pressure is on all companies to do better when it comes to ethical practices.
