Why Are Alpaca Fur Stuffed Animals Sustainable?
First some facts.
Alpaca farming is the most important economic activity in the Peruvian Andes. This region holds 12% of Peru's population or 3.8 million people. For Andean communities, alpacas are their only marketable resource. Many of these communities live in conditions of extreme poverty.
Alpaca farmers go through great lengths to care for their alpacas. Raising them, protecting them from predators and harsh weather, and gently shearing their fiber once per year.
Farmers would never hurt their alpacas. But keeping thousands of alpacas safe from predators and inclement weather is not a perfect task. Not even with the strength of an entire community.
The Peruvian Andes holds 87% of the world's population of alpacas, which equals 3.7 million alpacas.
11% of adult alpacas perish every year.
30% of newborn alpacas perish every year.
Making the best of a harsh reality.
Alpaca farmers are deeply impacted by the passing of their alpacas. Naturally, they realized the fur of these alpacas could be a valuable resource for local artisans. Giving a new life to these less fortunate alpacas created a new industry. In return, alpaca farmers use these earnings to provide a better quality of life for their family and their herd. Farmers can access veterinary attention, purchase medication, maintain their shelter, and continue supporting their family and their community.
Creating alpaca fur products.
Local artisans learned and perfected the art of curing the fur, cleaning it and even dyeing it using eco-friendly dyes. All by hand and in small batches. We began making rugs, slippers, and other products for the local market. Today, we make stuffed animals, pillow covers, scarves, hats, and many other products. These products made from sustainable alpaca fur are now enjoyed all over the world, supporting thousands of talented Peruvian artisans and their communities.