How to Buy Ethical and Sustainable Mongolian Cashmere You Can Track

Mongolia has more than 60 million herds, 171.6 thousand herding households and about 285.4 thousand herders. On average 10,000 tons of cashmere can be produced annually and MUNKH is a proud  manufacturer of the value-added final-end products, meaning the raw material sourced from the herder’s cooperatives with sustainable herding practices.

In recent years, the attitude of consumers in the international market changed significantly, they are more interested in whether they are produced with raw materials that are environmentally friendly, have a clear origin, are responsible, and have a traceability system.

As a manufacturer, we believe that the Responsible Nomad System management plays an important role in sustainability performance and we have the responsibility to influence our clients on being the advocates for best herding practices, on reducing the environmental impact, on securing the herders livelihoods, on improving the animal welfare, fair trade and sustainable chain of supply by working together with our suppliers to improve their sustainability performance.

1. Background of the Responsible Nomad System

The Responsible Nomad System was created to address several critical issues in the Mongolian cashmere sector, including environmental degradation, animal welfare, and the economic stability of nomadic herding communities. Mongolia is a significant player in global cashmere production, with around 40% of the world’s cashmere coming from its unique high-quality fibers. However, the rapid growth in cashmere demand has led to overgrazing, desertification, and a strain on resources.

The Responsible Nomad System is a certification and tracking mechanism that promotes sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. It enables buyers to verify that their cashmere is ethically sourced and to support sustainable herding practices directly.

2. Key Components of the Responsible Nomad System

Sustainable Herding Practices

• Environmentally Conscious Grazing: This component requires herders to manage grazing patterns to prevent land degradation. The program provides training in rotational grazing, ensuring vegetation can recover and minimizing desertification.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Herders are encouraged to protect local ecosystems, which includes maintaining balance with other native species and plants. Responsible grazing patterns support the overall health of Mongolia’s grasslands.
• Animal Welfare Standards: Cashmere goats are treated with humane practices, ensuring that the cashmere is harvested using non-invasive combing methods rather than shearing. This approach respects the well-being of the animals, which is critical to the ethos of the system.

Supply Chain Transparency

• Traceability Technology: Each batch of cashmere collected from our herders who work with us more than 10 years is given a unique digital identifier that remains with the fiber through every step in the production process. This identifier, often a QR code, ensures that buyers can trace the origins of the product back to the herder.
• Data Collection Points: The system has data checkpoints at each step: herding, collecting, processing, and manufacturing. Information gathered includes the herder’s identity, location, environmental practices, and processing methods used.
• Blockchain-Backed Tracking: Some companies employ blockchain technology for an immutable record, which enhances transparency and consumer trust.

Certification and Quality Assurance

• Third-Party Auditing: To ensure compliance, third-party auditors inspect herders, suppliers, and manufacturers, confirming adherence to the system’s standards. These audits ensure that herding, processing, and manufacturing practices align with environmental and ethical guidelines.
• Responsible Nomad Certification: MUNKH products that meet all the requirements are awarded the Responsible Nomad Certification, which assures buyers of the sustainable and ethical sourcing of their cashmere products.
• Product Labeling: Certified products are labeled with the Responsible Nomad mark and a unique code or QR code that allows consumers to track the product’s journey.

3. Benefits of the Responsible Nomad System for Buyers

Ethical Sourcing

• By purchasing products certified by the Responsible Nomad System, buyers support herders who practice ethical animal care and sustainable grazing, directly impacting the lives of nomadic communities in Mongolia.

Environmental Responsibility

• The Responsible Nomad System encourages environmentally sustainable practices. Buyers who choose certified cashmere contribute to the preservation of Mongolia’s grasslands and help reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with cashmere production.

High-Quality Product Assurance

• Certified products are often of higher quality since they’re sourced from well-cared-for animals and are processed under strict quality controls. Buyers receive a luxurious, durable product while knowing that their purchase supports the ethical production chain.

Consumer Trust and Transparency

• The traceability feature builds consumer trust by providing full transparency from the source to the finished product. Buyers can make an informed choice and feel confident in the ethical nature of their purchase.

The Responsible Nomad System is a revolutionary approach to cashmere production, one that not only safeguards the environment but also supports Mongolian herding communities. By incorporating digital traceability and certification, this system empowers buyers to make ethical decisions and invest in products that promote sustainability and social responsibility.

Ultimately, the Responsible Nomad System is transforming the cashmere market, creating a standard that values ethical practices, quality, and transparency, making it easier for buyers to connect with the origin of their products and support responsible production practices.

— Article by Temuge Batsuuri

Following these steps can help you safely remove stains from cashmere without damaging the delicate fibers.

• Avoid Bleach and Harsh Cleaners: These can damage the cashmere fibers.
• Act Quickly: The sooner you treat a stain, the better the chance of removing it.
• For Persistent Stains: If the stain persists after two attempts, consider taking it to a professional cleaner experienced with cashmere

1. Identify the Stain Type

• Determine the type of stain (oil-based, water-based, protein-based, etc.) to choose the best treatment. For example:
  • Oil-based stains: from food, lotion, makeup
  • Water-based stains: like coffee, tea, wine
  • Protein-based stains: blood, sweat, milk

2. Pre-Treat the Stain

• Use a small amount of a gentle, wool-friendly detergent (or baby shampoo) and dilute it with cold water.
• Apply a few drops of the diluted detergent directly onto the stain.
• Gently dab (don’t rub) the area with a clean, damp cloth or your fingertips. Rubbing can damage cashmere fibers, so be as gentle as possible.

3. Let It Sit

• Allow the detergent to sit on the stain for about 10-15 minutes. This gives the detergent time to break down the stain.
• Be sure not to let the detergent dry on the fabric completely, as this can leave residue.

4. Rinse with Cold Water

• Gently rinse the stained area under cold water to wash away the detergent. Let the water flow through the fabric without squeezing or twisting it.
• Continue until all detergent is removed and the water runs clear.

5. Reapply if Necessary

• If the stain is still visible:
  • Repeat the pre-treatment steps, applying diluted detergent and dabbing gently.
  • Let it sit and rinse again with cold water.

6. Absorb Excess Water

• Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel.
• Roll the towel up with the garment inside to gently press out excess water. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric.

7. Dry Flat

• Lay the cashmere item flat on a fresh, dry towel in its natural shape.
• Allow it to air dry fully. Keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

— Article by Temuge Batsuuri

1.Geographical and Climate Factors:

• • Mongolian Cashmere refers to cashmere that comes from Mongolia, country located between China and Russia. Mongolia is known for producing some of the rarest and highest quality cashmere as it adapts incredibly well to the harsh continental climate.

The subzero temperatures, dry, long winters and hot summers create a harsh environment that stimulates the growth of ultra-fine undercoats in goats resulting in soft and luxurious cashmere. The temperature fluctuations often reach as low as -40°C (-40°F) in the winter, pushing goats to develop a denser and finer undercoat, often called duvet.

1. • Chinese Cashmere comes from Inner Mongolia, an autonomous region within northern China. Despite sharing a name with Mongolia, Inner Mongolia is a Chinese province, and it is also famous for producing cashmere.

The climate is slightly more moderate compared to Mongolia, though still cold, with winter temperatures reaching -20°C (-4°F) or lower. However, the environmental conditions remain favorable for cashmere production due to the cold winters.

2.Quality and characteristics of Fiber: 

Fiber Diameter:

1. • Mongolian Cashmere: Generally, Mongolian cashmere has a fiber diameter ranging from 14 to 16 microns. This fine diameter contributes to the luxurious softness.
   • Chinese Cashmere: Inner Mongolian cashmere also has a fine diameter, typically between 15 to 18 microns. This is very similar to Mongolian cashmere but may sometimes have slightly more variation.

Length and Density:

• • Mongolian Cashmere: Generally has longer fibers, which contribute to its durability and softness. The fibers tend to be longer, typically 30-40 mm or more, which improves the durability and resistance to pilling.

Longer fibers enhance the spinning process, resulting in stronger yarns with less pilling.

Unbleached and undyed cashmere fibers have four natural colors: white, beige, warm grey and brown are the naturally occurring shades of Mongolian goats

• • Chinese Cashmere: Fiber lengths in Inner Mongolia range between 25-35 mm, which is comparable but may occasionally be shorter than high-grade Mongolian cashmere. Shorter fibers can be softer but may pill more quickly.

3.Production Practices:

Hand Combing: Both regions traditionally use hand-combing techniques to collect cashmere during molting seasons (spring), which minimizes fiber breakage.

1. • Mongolia: Cashmere production in Mongolia is a smaller industry compared to Inner Mongolia but is a significant part of the Mongolian economy. Mongolia accounts for around 40% of the global raw cashmere supply.

In Mongolia, the emphasis on traditional methods often results in smaller quantities but higher quality.

• •  China: Inner Mongolia is the world’s largest producer of cashmere, accounting for a substantial portion of the global market. The cashmere industry in Inner Mongolia is more industrialized, leading to a larger volume of cashmere production.

4.Environmental Impact and Grazing conditions:

1. • Mongolian Pasture: Diverse flora including various grasses and shrubs contributes to the goats’ nutrition and the quality of cashmere.

Increasing focus on sustainable and ethical production methods, including pastoralist practices that benefit local communities.

1. • Chinese Pasture: More intensive agriculture can affect natural grazing lands, potentially leading to a less diverse diet for goats.

There is growing awareness of sustainability, but intensive agriculture can pose challenges to traditional grazing practices.

5.Perception and marketing:

• • Mongolian Cashmere is often marketed as more artisanal or traditional, highlighting the nomadic herding practices and the sustainable, eco-friendly methods used by Mongolian herders.

• • Chinese Cashmere is sometimes associated with larger-scale production and more industrial processes, though the quality remains high.

6.Market pricing:

• • Mongolian Cashmere: Generally commands a higher price due to its superior quality and lower production volumes. Often marketed as luxury goods.

• • Chinese Cashmere: Tends to be more competitively priced, appealing to a broader market segment, including mid-range products.

SUMMARY

• Quality: Mongolian cashmere is generally considered superior in softness, fiber diameter, and overall durability, making it a top choice for luxury products.
• Variability: Inner Mongolian cashmere can vary more in quality due to different breeding and agricultural practices but remains a solid option for mid-range products.
• Sustainability: Both regions are becoming more conscious of sustainable practices, though Mongolian methods often emphasize traditional pastoralism.

Here are some common sources where such data might be found:

1. Textile Research Journals
2. Standard Testing Organizations:
   • AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists)
   • ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)
3. Industry Reports
4. Universities and Research Institutions
5. Textile Testing Laboratories

Commemorating the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Swiss Confederation, President of the Swiss Confederation Viola Amherd paid a State Visit to Mongolia by the invitation of President of Mongolia H.E. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa.

Amid the State visit, Munkhbumuud LLC had an honor to receive the visit from the President H.E.Viola Amherd and distinguished delegates.

MUNKH CASHMERE MONGOLIA Is honored and humbled by this opportunity and the focus of the visit was on providing the Sustainability factor of the Mongolian Cashmere, its origins and the nature of the world demand for premium quality raw material.  The founder of the company shared the values, product features and export experience to the European  market.

The main  topics were around Cashmere and Yak Down which is a renewable material that is harvested by the nomad family every year during springtime. Goats produce this incredibly luxurious fine fiber to protect themselves from extreme cold, the colder the climate the finer, thinner, and longer the fiber is, which results in the best quality products.

MUNKH CASHMERE MONGOLIA is a proud member of the Green Gold Project implemented by The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). Being a part of the project, it allows us to have a better perspective on the traceability system improvement of  livestock raw materials and valued added End products. “RESPONSIBLE NOMADS”  traceability system (RMTS) allows our clients to scan individually assigned QR code to see whom we work with, where we source and most importantly, the wellbeing of the herd. RMTS expanded to 18 aimags, 169 soums, 1575 pasture users and 22000 herder households.

Mongolia is highly vulnerable to severe winter conditions and cold wave, known locally as ‘dzud’. National authorities in Mongolia have issued warnings and forecasts for harsh winter conditions and severe cold wave.

A dzud is a slow-onset disaster, resulting in gradual livestock mortality over time due to a prolonged combination of malnutrition and cold stress. The winter of 2024 has been extremely harsh, with continued dzud conditions throughout the country.

As of 20 December 2023, the Government of Mongolia reports that approximately 90 per cent of Mongolia’s territory, including 21 provinces excluding Ulaanbaatar city, or 321 out of 339 soums  are categorized as facing a high or extreme dzud risk. Moreover, 250 soums, excluding two districts of Ulaanbaatar city, covering 74 per cent of the nation, are already in dzud or near-dzud conditions. Within the dzud conditions, 47 soums in 14 provinces are under ice or icy conditions, while 135 soums in 17 provinces are under the white dzud conditions.

-43-48 degrees  at night and -29-34 degrees during the day in the valleys of major rivers such as Uvs Lake, Darkhad , Zavkhan , Ider, Tes and Baidrag rivers.

This winter has seen more snow than in the last 49 years, more than the dry winter of 2009-2010, and more precipitation than since 1975. As of today, more than 115.956  herders impacted, leading to substantial livestock losses, 1.4 per cent of the total livestock in Mongolia.

The alarming rapid temperature fluctuations and heavy snowfall caused a big loss of livestock and severely impacted the live hood of Mongolian herder families.  Although dzud occurrences are common in Mongolia, this year’s severity is concerning. The livelihoods of vulnerable herder households and their socio-economic situation are under threat. The worst is yet to come, the peak of livestock mortality will occur from February to April.

President of the Federal Republic of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier paid a State Visit to Mongolia on February 7-8, 2024, the visit was implemented within the framework of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Amid the visit, Munkhbumuud LLC have had an honor to receive the visit from the President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the First Lady Elke Budenberger, Minister of State Dr. Tobias Lindner and distinguished delegates.

Our company regards this visit as an honor, the founder of the company and  family members exchanged their history on founding and establishing the knitting factory, shared the values, product features and export experience to the European  market. The guests got to know the Know-how of our production, the characteristics of Premium quality Mongolian cashmere, its softness, the biodegradable and natural qualities.

We were humbled  and deeply appreciate the importance of such a visit and grateful for the provided encouragements and suggestions.

캐시미어 섬유의 원산지는 대부분 몽골과 내몽고(중국)입니다.

많은 분들이 몽골산과 내몽고산의 다른 점을 인지하기 어렵습니다.

하지만 두 지역의 캐시미어는 확연한 차이점이 존재합니다.

내몽고에 비해 몽골은 영하 50도에서 영상 40도까지의 엄청난 기온차를 보이는데, 이러한 환경에서 자란 염소는 뛰어난 보온성을 지닌 긴 털을 가지게 됩니다.

따라서, 상대적으로 덜 추운 지역에서 성장하는 내몽고 염소는 털이 짧으며 보온성이 낮습니다. 또한, 소재의 촉감 역시 몽골산이 더 부드러워 세계적으로 No1.캐시미어로 인정받고 있습니다.

몽골산 캐시미어는 전세계에서 채집되는 캐시미어 중 가장 최고급 소재로 인정받고 있습니다. 타 지역 캐시미어에 비해, 털이 길고 부드러워 해외 명품 브랜드에서도 가장 많이 사용합니다.