2009 Declared International Year of Natural Fibres

UN General Assembly Resolution

New York/Brussels, 05.01.2007

The year 2009 was declared the International Year of Natural Fibres (IYNF) on December 20 by the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York. The IYNF 2009 will help to develop the efficiency and sustainability of agricultural industries that employ millions of people, contribute to food security and provide economic development opportunities.

To raise awareness

The International Year of Natural Fibres 2009 will raise consumer awareness of natural fibres in the world economy as well as within the textile sector. IYNF 2009 will strengthen demand for natural fibre products, improving the livelihoods of the farmers who produce them and revenues for countries that export them. Promoting the use of natural fibres will enhance the environment.

The wide range of natural fibres includes wool, jute, cotton, flax, silk, sisal, coconut fibre and many others. Some are produced from plants, others from animals, and they are used in clothing, interior textiles and other consumer goods, as well as in industrial applications. Virtually every country in the world produces some natural fibres.

Fashion shows, exhibitions, conferences, TV documentaries, books, and programs for school children are some of the activities that will be associated with the IYNF 2009.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will coordinate the International Year of Natural Fibres 2009, with participation by organizations representing the wool, cotton, jute, linen, coir, hemp and other hard fibre industries.

The International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO) will represent the wool and animal hair sector on the steering committee for the IYNF 2009.

FAO is now seeking funding from donor countries and organizations to finance activities in support of the International Year of Natural Fibres in 2009.

For further information please contact Henrik Kuffner: kuffner@iwto.org

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IWTO is the international body representing the interests of the world’s wool textile trade and industry. Our multi-national membership includes woolgrowers, traders, primary processors, spinners, weavers, and garment manufacturers, together with retailers and other companies involved in wool related businesses.