A new integrity and sustainability programme has been launched to boost Australia’s position as a globally recognised supplier of sustainably and responsibly grown wool. The programme is meant to set a new standard for wool production and sourcing.
- The scheme, titled Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme (AWSS), hopes to signal a new era for the integrity of sustainably certified Australian wool.
- The new programme, including new standards and processes, will be in place from 1 July 2024.
THE SCHEME: The announcement to this effect was made at the ongoing International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) Congress in Adelaide, Australia.
- The Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme is managed by the Australian Wool Exchange (AWEX) and is an evolution of the former SustainaWOOL Integrity Scheme.
- The outcomes-focused Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme Grower Standards will outline the performance criteria and evidence options wool growers can use to demonstrate their on-farm sustainability commitment and credentials. The Standards include four sustainability pillars; caring for the environment, sheep, people and industry as well as clip preparation and integrity requirements.
- The AWSS has two pathways of accreditation—SustainaWOOL and ResponsiWOOL—reflecting the production diversity in Australia, and the differing sustainability expectations of the global market. They differ only in the accepted practices for flystrike control, all other programme requirements are identical.
- SustainaWOOL accreditation would mean wool produced to the Standard of animal health and well-being practices for controlling flystrike that does not include mulesing.
- ResponsiWOOL accreditation would be wool produced to the Standard of animal health and well-being practices for controlling flystrike that includes breech modification with appropriate pain relief.
- An expert panel made up of qualified, respected and experienced subject matter experts has been appointed to provide guidance on standards and evidence for the Scheme.
- Certification through the AWSS is expected to capture the extensive sustainability on-farm practices of wool producers in one place, in a way that suits the needs of buyers, processors and consumers Australian wool, and by a trusted partner in AWEX.
THE BIGGER PICTURE: The AWSS accreditation will capture the wide range of sustainability practices to demonstrate the responsible stewardship of natural resources; health and wellbeing of sheep; care for people, customers and communities; and vitality and resilience of the industry, while upholding the highest quality standards and integrity for Australian wool.
- Maintaining market access is central to the Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme. As regulations and market requirements change around the world, this fit-for-purpose Australian sustainability scheme will provide the evidence to meet those changes.
- The Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme meets the needs of brands—credibly verifying the wool inputs they source, satisfying their sustainability and quality needs, and providing trusted traceability foundations to support reporting requirements through the use of WoolClip and eBale.
WHAT THEY SAID:
A review in 2023 highlighted the need to evolve the former SustainaWOOL programme to meet the changing needs of the marketplace. In the Australian Wool Sustainability Scheme, we have a robust programme underpinned by innovative practices on-farm, which are informed by research, backed by industry, regulated by government and demanded by customers. The AWSS is fully aligned to industry sustainability frameworks and commitments.
— Mark Grave
Chief Executive Officer
Australian Wool Exchange
