Editorial: Making wool great again
OPINION: Otago farmer and NZ First MP Mark Patterson is humble about the role that he’s played in mandating government agencies to use wool wherever possible in new and refurbished buildings.
Campaign for Wool New Zealand says, although it's been demanding, it has seen remarkable growth and got solid traction.
In its 2023 report, released last week, president Ryan Cosgrove says their strategic focus over the last financial year has been unwaveringly centred on their key priorities: education, promotion and advocacy.
"Not only are we confident in the strength and momentum of our strategy, we're on target and extremely excited about taking our work to the next level in 2024. Our results speak for themselves.
"Thousands of children taught about the wonders of wool with refurbished facilities and resources.
"Over two million people reached with a new multimedia consumer campaign about choosing wool over synthetics.
"We've increased our alignment and support with over 230 supporters and partners and we've advocated regionally and globally for amplified use of New Zealand wool."
But Cosgrove says their work is more than a strategy.
"It's a movement and it's gathering speed: our actions, and our work alongside our partners is now beginning to create the change the industry needs. And the year ahead will see us do even more."
According to the annual report, over two million NZ consumers were reached with multi-channel advertising campaigns across TV, print, radio, digital and social media. The "Wool in Schools" programme reached 6700 students and it posted 320 "engaging" social media posts across Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Cosgrove says educating New Zealand's youth about the advantages of choosing wool products over synthetic alternatives is vital for instilling early awareness and fostering sustainable habits.
"Primary school years form a crucial foundation for lifelong values, making it an opportune time to introduce concepts of wool performance and environmental responsibility. While integrating wool education into secondary schools empowers the next generation to prioritise wool use over synthetics, it also develops conscious consumerism and the importance of supporting our nation's wool industry.
"By teaching young children about the benefits of New Zealand wool, educators can impart essential knowledge about the material's renewable and biodegradable nature. This early understanding encourages children to develop a sense of responsibility towards the environment, as they grasp the positive impact of choosing wool over synthetic materials over ecosystems and sustainability."
He says plans for this year include expanding into tertiary with a tailored modular pilot programme across architecture, and creating a new 'Wool in Schools' pilot programme for remote schools.
There are also plans to develop further consumer campaigns to promote wool's benefits and champion strong wool for specification in public and government buildings.
Initiated in 2010 by King Charles III, the Campaign for Wool (CFW) is a global endeavour raising awareness among consumers about the natural, renewable and biodegradable benefits offered by the fibre.
