A Bit About Wool
Wool is a fiber that fits beautifully into sustainable living. It is a renewable, natural resource with a host of exceptional qualities that make it a great choice for many applications. Because wool provides sheep with a barrier against all the elements of nature, it makes sense that it has developed into such a durable and versatile fiber.
Because it is a natural fiber, wool is nature-friendly. Sheep grow wool year-round, making it highly renewable. It requires less energy to produce than synthetic fibers as well. Wool is biodegradable. It has a high nitrogen content, so it can be composted to provide nutrients back to the earth.
Sheep use their wool to protect themselves through changing seasons. Over time, their wool has become well adapted to this end. As a result, wool has several properties that make it useful to people as well. For example, wool naturally has a high level of UV protection, and it is flame retardant. If it does burn, the fumes are less toxic than synthetic material. Wool is also non-allergenic. Not only is it not known to be an allergen itself, but it does not promote the growth of bacteria. Perhaps its most commonly known quality is wool's ability to provide excellent insulation. Wool has unique water absorbtion and release properties that make it breathable , and allow it to insulate against both cold and heat. Wool can retain warmth, even when wet.
Finally, the natural crimp of wool fibers make it durable and elastic. Good wool fiber resists breakage and will return to its natural form, even after repeated manipulations of the fibers. Wool also naturally absorbs sound, giving it a sound dampening quality that make it a great choice for carpeting, rugs, and wall-hangings, where noise is an issue.
