Swedish clothing retailer H&M has announced plans to stop using animal down and feathers in their clothes by the end of 2025. The company aims to use only down and feathers sourced from recycled items, such as puffer jackets and pillows.
By switching to 100% recycled materials, the retailer aims to reduce its environmental impact and improve animal welfare standards.
Down is the soft, fine layer of fluffy insulation found beneath the feathers of ducks and geese. It’s used in jackets, comforters, and pillows. Both down and feathers are used in clothing.
Animal rights organizations, such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and Four Paws, have criticized the down and feather industry.
Harvesting down and feathers for clothes involves extreme animal cruelty. Many farms that supply down are located in countries such as China, Hungary, and Poland.
Down and feathers are pulled from the skin of geese and ducks without anesthesia, causing significant pain and distress to the animals.
It is estimated that millions of ducks and geese are affected each year by these practices. Many birds experience repeated plucking throughout their lives.
PETA has long campaigned for major fashion brands to stop using animal-derived materials, advocating for alternatives that are more humane.
In May, PETA activists dressed in duck costumes and staged a protest at H&M’s annual shareholders’ meeting, demanding a ban on the use of down.
H&M also wants to turn plastic waste into polyester for children’s clothing, as part of its commitment to reducing waste.
Follow for daily animal news – Support animal welfare journalism
