Beyond leather … the five animals exploited by the fashion industry

The fashion industry continues to exploit animals for luxury items, beyond just leather and fur. Angora rabbits are subjected to live plucking for their wool, while ostriches are cruelly plucked alive for their feathers. Kangaroos are killed for their leather, despite claims of sustainability, and roosters are bred and slaughtered for hyaluronic acid in cosmetics. Sharks are also victims, hunted for their skin and liver oil, causing devastating impacts on marine ecosystems.

While some progress has been made, such as the banning of exotic skins and fur at London Fashion Week, consumers hold the power to demand more ethical choices. The question remains whether we will continue to fuel cruelty for the sake of fashion, or choose a future where compassion and sustainability lead the way.