Livestock

Sheep Wool Production: Welfare in Shearing and Beyond

The global wool industry affects over one billion sheep, with welfare concerns including rough shearing, mulesing, and extreme weather exposure.

Key Facts

Over 1 billion sheep are shorn annually worldwide
Mulesing involves cutting skin from around the hindquarters without anaesthesia
Shearing injuries including cuts and nicks are common in fast commercial shearing
Merino sheep have been selectively bred to produce excess wool, causing heat stress
Australia produces around 90% of fine merino wool

Welfare Considerations

Commercial shearing under time pressure leads to rough handling and cuts that go untreated. Mulesing causes acute and chronic pain and is used in around 50% of Australian merino flocks. Shorn sheep exposed to cold rain die from hypothermia at significant rates. Conversely, unshorn sheep in warm climates suffer heat stress. Humane shearing requires training, time, and post-procedure care.

What You Can Do

Choose wool certified by the Responsible Wool Standard
Advocate for a ban on mulesing
Support slow wool and responsible fibre movements
Ask fashion brands about their wool sourcing and mulesing policies
Consider plant-based fibre alternatives where appropriate