In a modern world with an increasing awareness of the damage that fast fashion does to people and planet, finding clothing that does good as well as feels and looks good is the ultimate goal of the savvy dresser. While cheap unsustainable clothing is churned out of sweat shops and ends up in landfill, there are those who choose to craft wardrobe staples in a better way.
At Aran Sweater Market, sustainability is a core part of our philosophy. Using manufacturing methods passed down from our grandparents and great-grandparents, we make clothing that lasts. Working in harmony with our environment is key, as is preserving artisan craftsmanship and properly valuing each person who contributes to each piece. An Aran Sweater Market purchase is an ethical and sustainable purchase, supporting skilled makers, earth-friendly farmers, and beautiful fashion choices that you can feel truly good about. Here’s an insight into the journey of Aran wool, from sheep to yarn, knitting to your wardrobe.
Farmed with the earth in mind
Sheep farming on the Aran Islands goes back thousands of years. In a rugged landscape that does not lend itself to arable farming, the hardy sheep were a vital resource for islanders.
In order to survive, the people of the Aran Islands had to learn to work in harmony with the natural environment, keeping wastage to an absolute minimum and utilizing every available option. This resourcefulness can be seen in the famous way that the Aran people would make their own soil!
With very little fertile ground, and most of the islands composed of barren rock, in order to grow vegetables or have a small garden the islanders had to get inventive. They would harvest seaweed from the beaches – a great fertilizer and soil conditioner. They would mix it with sand, and bury the mixture to let it rot down. The potatoes produced from this ‘soil’ are legendarily tasty!
Despite the march of progress in recent times, very little has changed on the Aran Islands. The people there recognize that it is vitally important not to disrupt the centuries-old web of interconnected traditions that gives them their self-reliance.
Sheep farming plays a key role in island life, and still follows the age-old patterns and rhythms of the year. The sheep require very little outside input to survive, despite the harsh conditions. Their wool is an endlessly renewable resource, growing back each year.
But there are several ways the wool industry is nonetheless working to manage and reduce greenhouse gasses. Significant research is underway to better understand and improve methane gas emissions. Research has already shown us that methane gases can be lowered and controlled by changing pasture species, improving soil management to increase carbon storage and by planting trees.
A sustainable tradition
The sheep of Aran roam freely on the islands, and once sheared, their wool is spun. In 1906, Irish playwright J.M. Synge saw women spin the yarn from the wool of their own sheep, which was then woven “by a weaver in Kilronan for fourpence a yard”. This practice is largely unchanged today.
True wool sweaters are the product of artisan knowledge handed down through generations. This precious heritage has been preserved and now provides a lifeline to Aran islanders, carving out a precarious life on the far fringes of Europe.
As well as being a very environmentally friendly purchase, Aran products are people friendly. Rather than any kind of intense manufacturing or sweat shop labour, each Aran artisan is a highly skilled professional continuing an ancient tradition that respects both landscape and the people who live there.
Looking back to move forward
By carrying forward the Aran knitting heritage, the Aran islanders are using the knowledge of their ancestors to navigate the challenges of the future. While we face catastrophic climate change, mass extinction, and unsustainable landfill waste, returning to the methods of our forebears could well provide sustainable solutions going forward.
Wool’s green credentials are well known. It is organically occurring, 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable. Growing wool with sustainable and regenerative practices can enhance biodiversity, soil health and carbon sequestration – for this generation and the generations to come.
A green wardrobe
Even once a piece of Aran wool finds its home in your wardrobe, its green credentials stand out when compared to other items of clothing.
The naturally breathable qualities of the 100% natural fibres mean your Aran will need to be washed much less frequently than synthetic items of clothing. When you do wash it, you will need to use lower temperatures. The completely natural nature of the fabric means no microplastic pollution is released into the water when you wash. This all adds up to reducing the carbon footprint of your clothing even further.
What’s more, a piece of Aran is a heritage item. Cared for properly, it will have a very long lifespan – you can consider it a family heirloom to pass on to your children! The very opposite of the ultra-short lifecycle of fast fashion, Aran will stay with you long term, and never go out of style.
When it is finally time for your Aran to retire, even this can be done in a green way. The wool will naturally biodegrade back into the soil – leaving no trace, as opposed to the plastic-filled synthetic fabrics that will linger in landfill for thousands of years. In fact, as it biodegrades, the wool will act as a fertilizer by releasing nutrients and carbon back into the soil.
Are you hoping for a wardrobe that supports both people and planet?
Aran products are a great place to start when you’re searching for sustainable pieces that have a positive impact. Rather than waste money on fast fashion, Aran is an investment that supports a way of life that works in harmony with the natural environment. It also helps preserve artisan skills and a precious traditional heritage. And, of course, it’s an age-old tradition that nonetheless looks fantastic!
With first class fashion credentials, as well as environmental authenticity and a strong ethical ethos, Aran Sweater Market is the greener, kinder, more stylish choice.
