When it comes to environmental impact, down stands out as the superior choice. Through comprehensive research, we now know that down is significantly more eco-friendly than polyester, with up to 97% lower impact across several critical environmental factors.
Down’s Environmental Benefits
18 Times Lesser Impact on Climate Change
Down fill has an 18 times smaller impact on climate change compared to polyester. This makes down the environmentally conscious choice for anyone looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still enjoying high-performance products.
Lower Environmental Impact
According to an independent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) by Long Trail Sustainability, down has an 85–97% lower impact than polyester across multiple categories, including human health, ecosystems, resources, cumulative energy demand, and climate change.
Down and feather are not only some of the most sustainable materials available but are also excellent for warmth and comfort. They enhance various aspects of life – from outdoor gear and sportswear to bedding and home furnishings.
Warmth
As the light fluffy coating clustered beneath the feathers of geese or ducks, down is the world’s most efficient natural insulator. Down products provide superior warmth over synthetic materials which is why it is the fill material of choice for winter sports apparel, outdoor gear, and bedding.
Lightweight
- When down and feather bedding first became mainstream in the 1960s, its superior warmth combined with its lightness changed the way beds were made. Heavy layers of blankets were replaced by a single light weight down and feather comforter or duvet.
- Runners, hikers, mountaineers, skiers, snowboarders, and skaters appreciate the extra movement, comfort and speed that lightweight down jackets, vests, and parkas offer.
Breathable
- Because it is a natural product, down and feather is a healthy, breathable material which reduces uncomfortable overheating during sports activities and the nighttime “sweats” that can interrupt a good night’s sleep.
- Down and feather bedding products are non-allergenic to those with dust allergies. Its breathability reduces the moist environment that breeds dust mites.
Sustainable
- Down and feathers are part of our lives as they are a byproduct of the food industry. Instead of being discarded into and contributing to ever-growing landfills, down and feather is collected, cleaned, sanitized, and used as fill material in products that keep us warm.
- IDFB commissioned a Life Cycle Assessment that revealed that down and feather fill is 85-97% more environmentally friendly than synthetic fill material.
Sustainability You Can Trust
Down is not only a natural material but one that supports a circular economy. Whether it’s used in sportswear, outdoor gear, or bedding, down products are designed to be durable, reusable, and biodegradable. By choosing down, consumers can contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying top-tier performance and comfort.
The International Down and Feather Bureau is the global trade association of the down and feather industry. IDFB is the leading resource for information about and promotion of down and feather material. IDFB conducts the research and creates the testing protocols and standards to help this industry maintain a high level of product integrity throughout the world.
IDFB ‘s total membership is currently comprised of more than 650 members from 32 countries and regions
New committee strengthens down and feather industry
The down and feather industry is securing its future with the creation of the International down market committee, a key step toward consumer protection, quality standards and reputation preservation.
7. October 2024