Sheep wool

What is Sheep Wool?

Sheep wool is a natural animal fiber obtained from the fleece of sheep. It is soft, temperature-regulating, and has excellent moisture-wicking properties.

It is used for clothing, bedding, padding, and insulation. Wool is a renewable raw material, biodegradable, and one of the oldest fibers used by humans.

How is Sheep Wool Produced?

Sheep are usually sheared once a year. The raw wool is then cleaned, sorted, and mechanically processed – for example, combed, spun, or quilted. Particularly high-quality wool comes from certified organic animal husbandry (kbT), which ensures animal welfare, organic feed, and the avoidance of harmful chemicals.

Environmental Impact of Sheep Wool

Sheep wool is a renewable resource that can be produced locally and processed with relatively low energy consumption – especially when sourced from kbT-certified farms.

1. Sustainability of Raw Material Sourcing

In certified organic animal husbandry (kbT), animals graze on pastures, receive only organic feed, and are raised under animal-friendly conditions. Mulesing and the use of pesticides are strictly prohibited.

2. Processing and Energy Use

Wool is typically cleaned and processed mechanically with minimal chemical treatment. Regional supply chains reduce transport distances and emissions.

Thanks to its high insulating properties, wool is ideal for sustainable products with long lifespans – from bedding to insulation materials.

3. Durability

Wool is naturally durable and dimensionally stable. It retains its structure for many years and regenerates simply by airing – ideal for long-lasting products.

4. Reusability

Wool can be reused as filling material, insulation, or in recycled textiles. Used wool products can also often be repaired or repurposed.

5. Biodegradability

Pure virgin wool is compostable and decomposes completely under natural conditions – without leaving behind microplastics or harmful substances.

Criticism

Despite its positive properties, sheep wool is not without criticism. Conventional livestock farming may involve poor animal welfare, long transport routes, or the controversial practice of mulesing – a painful procedure primarily used in Australia. Additionally, raw wool cleaning can be water- and energy-intensive if not done to ecological standards.

This makes it all the more important to choose wool from certified organic animal husbandry (kbT), which ensures animal welfare, mulesing-free practices, and gentle processing methods.