Organic standards promote animal welfare by setting strict guidelines for the treatment and management of animals. For example, the organic wool industry in New Zealand adheres to strict organic standards that prioritize the welfare of sheep used for wool production. These standards require farmers to provide animals with adequate housing, nutrition, and veterinary care, and to avoid the use of certain harmful chemicals and antibiotics.
In the case of organic wool from New Zealand, the wool must come from sheep that are raised on organic pastures, without the use of certain synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. The sheep must also be free-range, with access to grazing areas, shade, and shelter. These conditions promote the health and wellbeing of the sheep, and result in a high-quality organic wool product that is both environmentally responsible and ethically produced.
By promoting animal welfare, organic standards help to ensure that organic wool production is sustainable and responsible, and contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of animals and the environment.
