Animal Welfare
The natural world supplies us with an array of materials which make great outdoor performance gear. However, this comes with a responsibility to ensure these materials are sourced correctly. Rohan believes very strongly in the promotion of animal welfare in the manufacture of its products and as such, suppliers must comply with our standards.
We feel that anyone in a position of responsibility for looking after animals should work to the Five Freedoms on Animal Welfare as set out by The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE):
Freedom from Hunger and Thirst
Freedom from Pain, Injury or Disease
Freedom from Fear and Distress
Freedom from Discomfort
Freedom to Express Normal Behaviour
Down Fill
In our use of down, Rohan is proud to support the Responsible Down Standard. The RDS upholds the welfare of geese and ducks, recognising the best practices in animal health and excluding those which violate their principles.
The RDS make this guarantee through their work following the chain of custody, from farm to down processing plants to product manufacturer. This ensures the down used in Rohan products is sourced from farms who recognise the five freedoms of animal welfare, and not from animals who have been subject to unnecessary harm, such as live-plucking, or used for the production of foie gras.
Why do we use Down?
Down provides a high level of thermal efficiency and comfort. For this reason, consumer demand for down filled products remains high.
Because of this, it is important to ensure that the down insulation we use in our garments is sourced in an ethical and sustainable manner. At every step of the way, we make sure to track the process and origin of the insulation we purchase.
We recognise the best practices in animal welfare, and work to uphold the welfare of the fowl providing feathers for our high-quality insulation products.
Merino Wool
Rohan is strictly against mulesing and will not accept any wool where an animal has been subject to this practice. All of the merino used in our products is sourced from farms based in Australia and South Africa. Documentation and/or traceability credentials are a requirement of supply.
The merino supply chain is long and complex so tracing merino wool is a difficult process. The independent certification of our merino wool sources has been a long-term project for us and as a result, we look forward to having the work with our supply chain partners, formally recognised in our upcoming Responsible Wool Standard certified, merino wool range in the Autumn Winter 2020 season.
Why do we use Merino Wool?
Wool is a fantastic renewable material. It is breathable, soft and easy to care for. When worn, it regulates body temperature and has anti-bacterial qualities. All-in-all, an ideal material for outdoor and performance clothing.
