The Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) addresses animal welfare concerns in wool production, ensuring that sheep providing fiber for certified products are treated humanely throughout their lives. Eastern Mills' RWS certification reflects our commitment to ethical materials.
RWS farms must meet comprehensive animal welfare requirements covering the 'Five Freedoms': freedom from hunger and thirst, discomfort, pain, fear and distress, and freedom to express normal behavior. Auditors verify compliance through regular farm visits.
The standard prohibits mulesing, a controversial practice involving surgical removal of skin folds. RWS-certified farms must use alternative flystrike prevention methods that don't compromise animal welfare.
Land management requirements complement animal welfare provisions. RWS farms must protect soil health, water quality, and biodiversity—recognizing that animal welfare and environmental stewardship are interconnected.
Chain of custody tracking ensures RWS wool maintains its certified status through processing. From farm through finished product, certified fiber is segregated and documented, preventing unauthorized blending with non-certified materials.
For consumers concerned about animal welfare, RWS certification provides meaningful assurance. Unlike vague marketing claims, RWS represents third-party verified standards with ongoing monitoring.
By specifying RWS-certified wool for our products, Eastern Mills supports the growing market demand that drives industry-wide welfare improvements.
