Catalunya Moves to Ban Fur Farming

The Parliament of Catalunya voted to urge the regional government to prohibit fur farming, potentially making it the first community in Spain to do so. The resolution received support from PSC, ERC, Comuns, and CUP, driven by animal rights groups ARDE and INTERCIDS.

Though Catalunya hasn’t had fur farms since 2010, advocates fear businesses will relocate from countries like Poland, which committed to ending the practice by 2033, to avoid new European restrictions. The move addresses concerns beyond animal welfare.

Escaped American bison from previously existing farms have become an invasive species, impacting local ecosystems and even carrying zoonotic diseases like Covid-19. The resolution notes fur production generates significantly more greenhouse gases than other textiles.

ARDE cites a BBVA Foundation survey indicating 90% of Spaniards find using animals for clothing unacceptable. With most Spanish communities lacking fur farms, this legislation could set a precedent for a nationwide ban.