Sustainability Circle

It is well known that the global population is still growing and it is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050. In turn, this will increase the demand for high quality materials, including wool.

In order to establish a sense of balance within the Wool Industry we can investigate and research various areas of a Sustainability Circle. These areas are unique, but are also interconnected. Issues in one area will no doubt affect areas in another. Therefore, it is important for all stakeholders to try to establish a sense of coexistence within these fields in order to maintain a strong, vibrant and healthy industry.

Maintaining a sustainability Circle ensures the efficient production of safe, high quality wool based products, in a way that protects and improves the natural environment, the social and economic conditions of farmers, their employees and local communities, and safeguards the health and welfare of all farmed species.

THE FOUR ELEMENTS OF THE SUSTAINABILITY CIRCLE

1. Improve the impact of sheep on the environment and the climate

a. Support of best practices and tools for improving resource efficiency and reducing environmental impact in the wool industry

2. Improve and sustain animal health and welfare

a. Encourage Australian wide implementation of comprehensive animal health and welfare plans on the farm

b. Provide access to a wide range of veterinary services and medicines to keep animals healthy, minimise disease, and for better viability of animals.

3. Maintain high living standards for farmers and the wool industry supply chain whilst also keeping wool products affordable for consumers

a. Stimulate the benefits of farming and help guarantee positive working environments, positive financial prospects, and access to resources, training and education.

b. Develop government and industry policies to make food production viable for farmers and affordable for consumers through the use of research, innovation, investment, capacity-building and knowledge transfer

4. Enable consumers to make sustainable choices

a. Work with stakeholders and consumers to co-develop and validate scientifically reliable easy-to-understand information on food and nutrition security, as well as, sustainability and innovation in livestock production.

b. Partner with international organisations and all relevant stakeholders to enhance public knowledge and understanding of practices in wool production.

c. Set up a structured and continuous dialogue between policymakers and stakeholders, including consumers, on identifying ways for improving the sustainability of the wool industry