Pei Su, the founder of the non-profit organization ACTAsia dedicated to ending the use of fur in fashion, expressed gratitude as major fashion brands showcased fur-free collections at London Fashion Week. Having witnessed the cruelty of fur farming firsthand, Pei Su emphasized the importance of not glamorizing real fur, despite the recent trend among celebrities and influencers to promote its use.
London Fashion Week’s decision to officially ban fur in 2023 was a significant milestone, but the resurgence of interest in real fur among some influencers and celebrities is concerning. Pei Su, through her work with ACTAsia, highlighted the brutal realities of the fur industry, where millions of animals like foxes, mink, and raccoon dogs are bred and slaughtered annually.
The environmental impact of fur production, with its high carbon footprint and toxic processes, raises serious concerns. Additionally, the risk of pandemics stemming from fur farms due to the close proximity of animals and human interaction adds another layer of complexity to the issue.
Advocates argue that vintage fur is a form of recycling, but Pei Su disagrees, stating that it only normalizes fur and perpetuates demand. While the UK has banned fur farming domestically, the continued import and sale of fur raise ethical questions about supporting the industry globally.
Pei Su called for public support for a parliamentary bill that aims to ban the import and sale of fur in the UK, emphasizing the need for informed consumer choices. ACTAsia’s efforts in China have led to a decrease in fur farms, with a growing number of retailers globally joining the Fur Free Retailers scheme.
While progress has been made, challenges remain as some major fashion weeks still allow the use of fur. Pei Su urged individuals to consider the implications of their fashion choices and support initiatives that promote compassion for animals and the environment.
Pei Su, as the CEO of ACTAsia, a UN-supported organization, is committed to advocating for animal welfare and environmental conservation through grassroots initiatives and detailed research on the fur industry. To learn more about ACTAsia’s work, visit www.actasia.org.
