Cage shopping
To take a stand against the cruel fur industry, the cosmetics company Lush has launched an awareness campaign.
Winter is not yet upon us, but soon some will be hitting the fashion stores in search of new winter jackets. Fur coats have become a rather rare sight in the streets, but nevertheless fur-trimmed collars and accessories on winter clothing have been on the rise again for several years.
This fur comes from fur farms all over the world. In 2013, twice as much fur was imported into Switzerland as in 2001. At the same time, the import of fake fur has decreased. Worldwide, the turnover of the fur industry has increased by over 70 percent. The animals remain the ones who suffer. But also the environment and finally the fur wearers do not profit from this fashion. Compared to imitations, real fur consumes 200 times more energy and is treated with chemicals that are harmful to humans and the environment. Over 100 substances used can cause cancer, infertility and hormonal disorders in humans.
Lush's awareness campaign is aimed primarily at fashionistas who are unaware of how much animal suffering goes into a fur collar or fur accessory. In a staked-out cage area of a typical mink enclosure, converted to human size, customers are to become aware of how little space is available to the animals. With information material and a Furry type test Lush employees additionally draw attention to the suffering of fur animals during the campaign week.
Julia Bogdanovic-Artho, Campaign Manager at Lush Switzerland comments: "Every year, over 100 million animals die on fur farms worldwide. They are kept in cramped cages, unable to move properly or meet their natural needs, and are killed at the end of their sad lives by genital electric shocks or live skinning. These torturous killing methods are used so that the fur is not damaged. The tanuki, mink, dogs and cats are worth no more while alive than the final product they will one day become. Whether the animal suffers particularly is unimportant to the producers. All that matters is that the fur trim on the jacket looks great later."
As a vegetarian, animal-free cosmetics company, Lush regularly advocates for animal rights and supports organizations and groups that advocate for animal rights.
