Sustainable wool
Alpaca wool is environmentally sustainable due to the low environmental impact of breeding alpacas and harvesting their wool. Most alpacas are bred in their natural habitat, the Andean highlands.
Alpacas graze lightly without harming root systems, preserving the land and allowing plants to thrive even after grazing. Moreover, alpacas consume less water and food compared to sheep and goats. Additionally, their padded feet are gentle on the soil surface, minimising environmental impact.
Alpaca fleece is naturally lanolin and oil-free, making it simple to wash without the need for harsh detergents or chemicals. Additionally, alpaca waste can serve as a powerful fertilizer.
Ethical Yarn wool
Alpaca wool is considered ethical because alpacas require regular shearing to maintain their well-being and comfort. The ethicality of alpaca wool depends on the breeders, extraction processes, and the timeframe in which the wool is obtained.
In South America, alpaca breeders are primarily indigenous individuals who have a deep passion for raising and shearing alpacas. Alpaca wool has been their main source of income for generations. They show great care for their woolly companions and use traditional, eco-friendly practices to harvest the wool. Picture the shearing process as a yearly "haircut" for the alpacas, essential to prevent discomfort if not done regularly.
Alpaca fleece is typicallysheared once a year to allow the fleece to grow to the desired length and quality. Some ethical breeders choose to shear the soft fiber every 1.5 years. Shearing occurs in spring or early summer to ensure the alpacas are comfortable in the warmer months. The process is conducted ethically using gentle, traditional methods to ensure the well-being of the animals.
Cruelty Free on Alpaca Wool
Alpaca wool is both cruelty-free and environmentally sustainable. Shearing alpaca fleece is necessary to prevent health problems since alpacas do not naturally shed their fleece. Although shearing can be stressful for the animals due to the noise and restraint involved, when performed carefully and gently, it provides relief to the alpacas.
