Dr. Cate Williams, Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University
(Previously published by Business Wales.gov: July 23, 2020)
How many of you still have wool on hand from last years wool clip? Have you decided when, where, and how you will sell it if at all? For those that are unsure, perhaps you could consider implementing a few of these alternative applications that would greatly benefit your operation this year and for many more to come.
- Sheep’s wool offers many benefits when used in a mixture as compost or mulch: as a source of slow-release nitrogen and other trace elements, in weed and pest control, moisture retention and temperature regulation.
- Wool may be used as a sustainable, renewable, and environmentally friendly alternative to peat.
- Other alternative uses include in thermal and noise insulation, particularly in the construction of new “eco-houses”.
- Further research is needed to establish optimum composting strategies and mixtures as well as how to upscale the process.
As the market for wool declines, producers may be looking for alternative ways to make use of their fleeces, particularly