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Coventry University’s fashion department commits to ethical materials with decision to not use new animal furs or exotic skins
Associate Professor Rebecca Ryder-Caddy, Coventry University’s Curriculum Lead for Design and Creative Business
University news
Tuesday 22 October 2024
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Coventry University’s fashion department has shown its commitment to a more ethical industry by not using new animal furs or exotic skins in its students’ work.
The decision was taken by staff due to their passion for sustainability and their desire to truly inspire the next generation of fashion designers, and has been supported by animal charity PETA.
The university’s fashion department said in a pledge that it is “committed to delivering a curriculum grounded in sustainable and ethical practice. As part of this commitment, the Fashion courses do not support the use of new animal furs, exotic skins (including alligator, crocodile, ostrich, snake, kangaroo, lizard and stingray) or ostrich feathers. In our curriculum, we encourage students to explore the use of bio-based and recycled faux fur, plant-derived yarns and textiles derived from mycelium and plants, including fruit”.
The staff team in the fashion suite of courses at Coventry University are passionate about sustainability and ethics in the fashion industry. We have worked for years with organisations including PETA to ensure we highlight innovation in materials, processes and business practice to students so they can make informed decisions leading to ethical and sustainable outcomes. We look forward to working with the next generation of students on their journey to becoming leaders in a more ethical fashion industry.
Associate Professor Rebecca Ryder-Caddy, Coventry University’s Curriculum Lead for Design and Creative Business
Coventry University’s new directive will allow fashion students, many of whom already refuse to work with animal-derived materials, to focus their talents on creating high-quality, luxurious animal-friendly designs. PETA thanks the university for sparing foxes, rabbits, and birds immense pain and suffering, and we’re calling on other fashion programmes to take note and follow suit.
Elisa Allen, PETA Vice President of Programmes
Find out more about Coventry University's fashion courses.
