Pashmina, the rarest and most lavish form of cashmere wool, has been woven into the cultural and economic fabric of the Himalayan region for centuries. Known for its ultra fine texture, supreme warmth, and softness, pashmina is the epitome of luxury and elegance.
Like many centuries-old institutions, the Himalayan wool industry has undergone changes over the years. Some have been positive, such as improvements in technology and infrastructure, while others have been much less favorable. Unfortunately, many of the industry’s newfound difficulties can be traced to climate change.
This industry that sustains the livelihoods of so many families in the Himalayan region is currently facing many unprecedented challenges due to the rapid and alarming impacts of climate change. Learn about how artisans and designers are working hard to preserve the pashmina industry in the face of the climate disaster below.
How Is Climate Change Affecting The Himalayas?
Climate change is a global issue that can be felt across all over the world, from the increasing prevalence of extreme weather conditions to the endangerment of animal species, but some regions are more impacted than others. South Asia, and the Himalayas in particular, is just one of the areas where the effects of climate change are becoming more and more noticeable.
The region is experiencing more frequent and severe heat waves, flooding, and droughts, which are in turn affecting agriculture, water availability, and human and animal health. The impact of climate change is especially evident in the Himalayas, where the fragile ecosystem and the indigenous communities that depend on it are being adversely affected.
Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and melting glaciers are taking a toll on the flora and fauna of the region, including the chyangra goats that produce pashmina wool. The degradation of the natural habitat of these goats is leading to a decline in their population, which in turn is affecting the production of pashmina wool.
Climate Change & The Pashmina Industry
The Himalayas is to pashmina what water is to fish. One cannot exist without the other, as the chyangra goats from which pashmina is derived can only be found in the Himalayas. The mountain range’s unique and often harsh climate is responsible for creating the pashm found on their underbellies, which is meticulously woven into the ultra fine, warm, and luxurious wool that is treasured across the world.
Chyangra goats and their pashm have evolved to withstand the high altitudes, extremely cold winters, and dry air of their native mountains. However, due to climate change, the Himalayan region is experiencing extreme weather events such as floods, landslides, droughts, and hotter than average summers.
These incidents are affecting both the animals and the people who rely on the land for their survival. The unpredictable weather patterns are negatively impacting the growth of vegetation, which is preventing chyangra goats from maintaining adequate levels of nutrition. As a result, the quality and quantity of pashmina wool are declining, and the industry is struggling to keep up with the demand.
What Does The Future Of The Pashmina Industry Look Like?
Preserving the beauty and heritage of the pashmina industry is one of the many reasons designers and global citizens alike are taking a stand against climate change. More brands are switching to sustainable practices that reduce their carbon footprint and mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as small-batch production, the use of natural fabrics and dyes, renewable energy, and carbon offsetting.
To help save the pashmina industry, preservation and protection of natural chyangra goat habitats is crucial. Sustainable grazing practices and reforestation initiatives can help maintain the delicate balance of the ecosystem and ensure the survival of the chyangra goats. Additionally, promoting ethical and fair trade practices will help support the artisans and weavers who produce exquisite pashmina garments. Due Mondi is proud to adopt several sustainable production practices that support the preservation of the pashmina industry, such as small-batch production and supporting traditional artisans.
The pashmina wool industry is a vital part of the Himalayan region's cultural and economic heritage. It is imperative that we take action to preserve this unique and valuable industry by implementing sustainable practices that protect the natural habitat of the pashmina goats. By doing so, we can ensure that the artisans who produce this wondrous wool can continue to thrive and pass down their craft to future generations.