The natural shedding of yak wool makes it possible to obtain a fine fabric similar to cashmere that is not treated with artificial dyes, thanks to its natural shades.
The yak, better known as the Tibetan ox, is a large mammal that lives on the high plateaus of central Asia, specifically in Tibet and Mongolia. Its distinguishing feature is a thick coat in shades ranging from dark to light brown that the animal sheds naturally with the arrival of spring.
The fibre obtained from yak wool is an excellent substitute for sheep's wool, whose processing subjects sheep to unethical practices. The intensive farms in which the sheep destined for wool production are forced to live is, in fact, only one of the hardships inflicted on the flocks. Even the extraction of the fleece involves considerable suffering: the use of the mulesing technique (practised mainly in Australia) consists of skinning live animals in the anal and perianal area to prevent flies from depositing their larvae in the wool or the wool from being soiled by the sheep's own excrement.
The yak, considered sacred in Tibet, does not undergo these terrifying practices because it is left free in its natural habitat, where it will live until its death from natural causes. The natural shedding of yak wool makes it possible to create a fine fabric similar to cashmere that, thanks to its natural shades, is not even treated with artificial dyes that are polluting to the environment.
In Italy, some textile companies have already recognised the importance of introducing this highly prized ecological fibre into winter clothing. This is demonstrated by the brand Myak, founded by Paola Vanzo and her veterinarian partner, which has established a professional collaboration with Tibetan nomads, who are fairly remunerated according to the quantity of fibre they provide. Maeko is no less committed, purchasing raw yak wool directly from its places of origin before spinning it in Italy.
Awareness of the suffering endured by animals destined for clothing production is the first step towards being able to change the dynamics of the textile industry. Animals, like humans, have rights — let us not forget that.