Fur has been a staple within the fashion industry since the Victorian Era. It was synonymous with wealth, influence and power. Close to 150 years later, fur still signifies wealth within the American fashion community and industry, but in a time of sustainability and being environmentally conscious, we have turned to faux fur as a substitute for the sake of protecting animals from being slaughtered for their pelts. The usage of faux fur is seen as more sustainable and environmentally friendly as compared to real fur, but are faux fur alternatives truly better for the planet?
Due to the impending threats of climate change, retail and corporate environments are trying to figure out a way to be profitable and have a business while still being gentle on the environment. But in a time of revolting fast fashion and the usage of real fur and leathers, many are opting for faux fur as an easy replacement. Faux furs are made of synthetic polymer fabrics such as acrylic, modacrylic and polyester. All are essentially types of plastics, but acrylic, the main component, is the most harmful. Acrylic is one of the worst products for the environment when it comes to fashion. According to the European Commission in a 2014 study, acrylic fiber can last in four out of six categories concerning various aspects of environmentalism. Acrylic fibers rank 39 out of 48 on their list of fabrics with the worst effect on the environment according to the US Sustainable Apparel Coalition.
Acrylic is not bio-degradable, putting it on the same level as single-use plastic. It is made of fossil fuels and highly toxic chemicals, making it dangerous for those who manufacture it. All of the fibers that go into producing faux fur are made of chemicals derived from fossil fuels, petroleum and limestone. According to the CDC, when wearing acrylic garments, chemicals can be absorbed by skin that is in contact with it. Acrylic fibers also contain the chemical dimethylformamide, which “can cause liver damage and other adverse health effects,” according to the CDC. Due to the high-involvement of the chemicals used, acrylic fabrics are very flammable and prone to combustion. Acrylonitrile has been noted as a carcinogen, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, and can have similar effects as cyanide.
Due to these reasons, real fur is seen as more sustainable than faux fur if it is ethically sourced and if we hold our clothing companies and manufacturers responsible to uphold these ethical standards. Real fur naturally decomposes at the end of its lifecycle, but lasts for generations and is able to be passed down. At the end of the day, it is best to stay away from both, but if you really feel the need to purchase and wear some sort of fur, check your local thrift and consignment stores first, or even places like eBay or Poshmark. Try to purchase used in order to help recycle the product, real fur or not!