As a by-product of the food industry, down is an important part of a large circular economy and has the ability to be processed in an a way that can have a very low impact providing one of the best insulation on AND FOR the planet.
The Goose and Duck supply chain is already a relatively low impact protein source and down itself only accounts for 2-8% of the value of the bird.
Down vs. Synthetic
The down and feather is collected following the preparation of the meat and would otherwise be thrown out as trash.
Many farms also have multi-layered functionality when it comes to the raising of birds. In China, there are farms where Geese roam free throughout commercial Asian Pear orchards.
The droppings from the birds fertilizes the trees, while surrounding the orchard lies existing water and shelter for the birds.