On November 19th and 20th, WCS Argentina and Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network participated in the international textile event Future Fabrics Expo, held in New York City, to showcase natural fibers produced through regenerative and wildlife-friendly livestock practices.
The event aimed to present innovations in materials and production methods in the textile industry from various parts of the world. With a turnout of hundreds of people, it brought together designers, international brands, and international governmental bodies related to exports and customs.
As part of the proposal, a seminar on regenerative agriculture was held, featuring Ezequiel Infantino, coordinator of certified value chains at WCS Argentina, and Christine Lippai, Director of Wildlife Friendly Enterprise Network (WFEN). They talked about the initiatives these organizations are leading to promote a regenerative and wildlife-friendly livestock, a growing global trend. They also presented cases from Argentine Patagonia, where these innovative practices have enabled the production of high-quality natural fibers such as merino wool, mohair, and live-sheared guanaco fiber, in a way that economically benefits rural producers while protecting the natural environment.
The specialists provided details on climate-smart livestock management systems that protect the soil and restore grasslands, actively contributing to carbon storage. They also talked about the incorporation of non-lethal methods to prevent native predators from approaching livestock, such as the presence of livestock guardian dogs and the use of deterrent lights, which have helped promote harmonious coexistence with native species like pumas, foxes, Andean condors, and Andean cats.
WCS and WFEN were also at a booth where the natural fibers produced in Patagonia were displayed, alongside clothes made by Argentine designers such as Alejandra Gotteli from Cubreme and María Zolezzi from Maydi. These types of materials are increasingly valued internationally, both by consumers and by the textile industry interested in working with sustainable raw materials.
For more information visit: https://www.futurefabricsexpo.org/
