Angora wool is renowned for its incredible softness and fluffy halo, but its beauty is tragically overshadowed by a history of severe animal cruelty. Due to the systemic welfare issues in the conventional angora industry, we at Circular People have banned this material from all of our products.

However, we believe in empowering you with knowledge. If you choose to shop for angora from other brands, it is crucial to understand the difference between conventional, unethical angora and the very few certified, humane alternatives.

The Problem with Conventional Angora

Over 90% of angora wool comes from unregulated farms in China, where rabbits are often kept in cruel conditions and harvested using inhumane methods like live-plucking. This practice involves violently ripping the fur from the rabbits' bodies, causing them immense pain and distress. Due to these issues, many major brands have rightfully chosen to ban angora.

A Humane Alternative: Caregora

If you are committed to finding an ethical angora product, a key certification to look for is Caregora. This is a specific, certified fiber that provides a verifiable level of animal welfare.

• Verified Standards: Caregora is audited by third-party certifiers to meet stringent European animal welfare standards. This means the rabbits are housed in better conditions and the wool is harvested humanely through shearing, not painful plucking.

• Traceable Sourcing: Caregora guarantees a traceable supply chain, allowing brands to verify that the wool came from a certified, humane source.

How to Make a Responsible Choice

• Avoid Angora Entirely: The simplest and safest choice is to avoid angora completely and opt for luxurious alternatives like alpaca (with RAS or Fair Trade certification), cashmere (with GCS or SFA certification), or ethically sourced merino wool.

• Seek Out Caregora: If you do choose to buy angora, look specifically for products with the Caregora certification. This is currently one of the only ways to ensure the fiber was sourced with verified animal welfare standards.

• Ask Brands for Transparency: Ask brands about their angora sourcing. A responsible brand will be able to tell you exactly where their angora comes from and provide proof of its humane sourcing, such as the Caregora certification.

End of Life and Circularity

Angora's end-of-life profile presents a challenge. While it is a natural protein fiber that can biodegrade, its delicate nature means it is not as durable as other fibers and can have a shorter lifespan. It is also very difficult to recycle due to its fine, slippery texture and the fact that it is often blended with other materials.

The best way to manage angora is to practice mindful care. By washing it gently and infrequently, you can extend its life and prevent shedding. If a garment is too worn to be worn, consider upcycling it for a small, delicate craft project. Given the ethical weight of this fiber, ensuring a long and useful life is the most responsible choice you can make.

By understanding the difference between conventional and certified angora, you can make a more informed and compassionate choice.