The UK May Become the First EU Country to Ban Fur Sales Entirely
The plan could be implemented after Brexit.
Fur has long been one of the most controversial materials in fashion. Last year, California banned the manufacture and sale of fur products altogether, while brands like Chanel, Prada and Miu Miu announced that they would no longer be using it for their products. Joining the cause, the UK is considering an outright ban after Brexit, according to The Guardian.
Back in 2000, the country became the first in the EU to prohibit fur farming. “Fur farming has rightly been banned in this country for nearly 20 years. Once our future relationship with the EU has been established, there will be an opportunity for the government to consider further steps it could take in relation to fur sales,” a spokesperson shared. “We have some of the highest welfare standards in the world, and that is both a source of pride and a clear reflection of UK attitudes towards animals.”
While this could be a positive step towards achieving a more cruelty-free and ethical fashion market, there are concerns surrounding the environmental impact of polyester and acrylic alternatives. The British Fur Alliance has been preparing to fight the ban, stressing that natural fur is needed to combat harmful cheap fashion products, and should be allowed as long as it’s ethically-sourced.
“Natural fur is inextricably linked to the environment: it is a sustainable material which represents heritage, quality and individuality. Environmental stewardship is one of the foundations of the contemporary fur trade and fur is part of the solution to the ‘fast’ fashion problem,” a representative commented.
