Facts: Sustainability in the European fur production

FACTS: SUSTAINABILITY IN THE EUROPEAN FUR PRODUCTION

The European fur production has some sustainability traits which are unique.

2/3 of the by-products of the European fur production is being processed at bio plants, which means that the 100% of the animal is used, mainly for fossil-fuel replacement and other energy purposes. The animal fat is being transformed into 2nd generation biofuel which, contrary to 1st generation biofuel, has no negative impact on biodiversity and land use. 

The carcasses are transformed into meat and bone meal, which is used as fertilizer and as fuel in cement kilns. The primary reason for not using 1/3 of the by-products of the fur production is lack of access to bio plants in certain European areas at the moment.

By-products also play another large role in the European fur production. Apart from chinchillas (plant-based diet), the fur animals bred in Europe are fed with fresh food every day. The food is mainly composed of waste products from human food consumption, namely the fish- and chicken industries.

Though not a European trait alone, fur products also have the environmental advantage of being an organic, biodegradable material, which can be composted in gardens. It is normal for fur products to be used and re-used for 20 -30 years.

On the other hand, as in any production, some level of pollution exists in the fur sector. At the farm level, ammonia emission is a challenge. At the moment, research concerning reduction of the amount of protein in the feed is being undertaken in order to reduce emission levels. The handling of manure is another priority area which will help reduce ammonia emissions. Both national and EU legislation is regulating the environmental aspects of European fur farming.

The preservation and dyeing of fur also generate an environmental load. European tanneries are regulated by REACH, the European Community Regulation on chemicals and their safe use.