Woolmark has announced the launch of its new initiative, Woolmark+, aimed at driving sustainable practices across the wool industry.
- The programme comprises 13 science-based initiatives focused on regeneration, emission reduction, and increased productivity.
- Seven initiatives have already commenced, with the recycled content specification launched in July and five more planned for the future.
- The program seeks to unite woolgrowers, the supply chain, and global brands to meet emission targets through nature-based solutions.
- Significant investment is expected, with approximately AUD$16 billion earmarked for environmental stewardship activities globally.
Woolmark’s latest endeavour, Woolmark+, sets a new standard in sustainable practices within the wool industry. This comprehensive roadmap focuses on enhancing the livelihoods of those within the supply chain while pushing for ecological improvements. With a commitment to scientific rigor, the programme outlines 13 initiatives aimed at regeneration, emission reduction, and improved productivity.
Among these, seven initiatives are already underway, including the groundbreaking Woolmark recycled content specification, which was introduced in July. The remaining five initiatives are slated for future release, reinforcing the program’s long-term vision. This initiative underscores Woolmark’s dedication to elevating the global wool industry through innovative and sustainable solutions.
A key element of the Woolmark+ programme is its insetting scheme, designed to lay the groundwork for a wool insetting market. Insetting, as defined by the World Economic Forum, involves nature-based solutions such as reforestation and regenerative agriculture, contrasting sharply with carbon offsetting that primarily relies on purchasing carbon credits. Woolmark’s strategy links woolgrowers with global brands seeking emission reduction through on-farm methods.
The financial backbone of Woolmark+ involves a mix of direct investments and collaborative efforts, with a significant AUD$16 billion dedicated to global environmental stewardship activities. This funding encompasses grants and venture capital, reflecting a robust commitment to sustainability. Woolmark is dedicated to ensuring these efforts translate into biodiversity recovery and improved livelihoods, surpassing mere carbon neutrality.
John Roberts, Woolmark’s managing director, emphasizes the pivotal role Australian woolgrowers play in this transformation, overseeing over 65 million hectares of land. Their stewardship is vital for a worldwide shift towards a low-emission, nature-positive market. Roberts advocates for recognizing and supporting these contributions to demonstrate the wool industry’s potential in enhancing biodiversity beyond net-zero targets.
Despite efforts to bolster animal welfare, the practice of mulesing remains contentious among Australian woolgrowers. While intended to prevent flystrike, mulesing has drawn criticism from animal welfare advocates. Woolmark is actively exploring alternative methods to mitigate flystrike, combining research and education to promote best practices. This initiative aims to minimize reliance on mulesing while supporting woolgrowers in transitioning away from the practice.
Woolmark+ represents a forward-thinking approach, setting the stage for transformative sustainability within the wool industry.
