ROTAUF Wool Standard
KBT - Because animals are important to us
Merino wool
The strictest animal husbandry standard known to us is controlled organic animal husbandry (kbT). It's an EU-wide seal of approval for organic products and reliable proof of ecological and animal-friendly wool. This standard hasn't caught on in the outdoor industry; sports brands largely rely on the less restrictive Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). Certainly much better than nothing, but not enough for ROTAUF—and you.
KBT FITS ROTAUF
RWS and kbT are valuable and important tools for transforming the textile industry into a more sustainable sector. Most outdoor brands prefer RWS, presumably because of its less stringent standards, which are easier and more cost-effective to implement. RWS sheep can be "fairly well" to "very well." This is certainly not bad and is a step in the right direction. However, the RWS standard ignores many important details for truly species-appropriate sheep husbandry. KBT sheep, on the other hand, are treated in a controlled and safe manner. We have invested considerable time in in-depth research to find out and compare what RWS and kbT mean and what requirements and benefits they offer. Based on our findings, we have created an essay comparing the two labels.
MULESING-FREE
Uncompromisingly animal-friendly
The importance of controlled organic animal husbandry
Organic livestock farming is defined by respect and consideration for the animals. Sheep are kept in a species-appropriate manner so they can live healthily and free of stress. The choice of pastures must match the ecological and climatic conditions of the respective sheep species. Merino sheep, for example, are more commonly found in South America or Australia, while other species also live here in Europe. The use of chemical pesticides on animals is not permitted. The pastures are managed according to organic farming guidelines, and the animals reproduce naturally. Mulesing or tail docking, as well as the feeding of genetically modified feed and fattening agents, is prohibited.
Certified organic livestock farming is certified by independent institutes. The farms are then subjected to regular inspections. Wool from sheep from certified organic livestock farming has not been treated with pesticides or herbicides and should therefore be free of these substances that pose a health risk.
At ROTAUF, we put animal welfare first and invest in uncompromising sustainability.
To achieve a shift toward conscious consumption and species-appropriate animal husbandry, we have chosen the most direct path since ROTAUF's founding. We are therefore the only outdoor brand known to us that consistently adheres to the strict KBT seal of quality.
Our goal is not just to meet the industry standard, but to push the boundaries of standards. In doing so, we aim to inspire the entire industry to take faster and bolder steps toward a more sustainable society.
ANIMAL WELFARE
A heartfelt project
A hat made from Swiss Merino sheep
Exclusive and rare. There's a very small herd of Merino sheep in Switzerland. Small in number and also small in size. But the wool is super fine and cozy. We knit this high-quality Merino beanie from it—also a perfect gift for a special occasion.