THE SUSTAINABLE FIBRE ALLIANCE
MEET THE HERDERS
Johnstons of Elgin is a founding member of the Sustainable Fibre Alliance (SFA), a non-profit organisation working with the extended Cashmere supply chain, from herders to retailers. The SFA works with communities in Mongolia to provide training, restore grassland and help ensure animal welfare. Here, we invite you to meet the herders and gain an insight into life in the Mongolian mountains.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
Experienced herder Khandsuren enjoys the dairy farming aspect of her job, and always makes time for a little self-care.
GONCHIG'S DREAM
Twelve-year-old Gonchig dreams of becoming a herder and a racehorse trainer. He shares a special relationship with his herder Grandmother.
GROWING FAMILY
Cashmere production is a family business, but children are encouraged to fulfil their studies before deciding to follow in their parent’s footsteps.
HERDERS AND THEIR HORSES
Horses are an essential part of life here – 'nature provides'.
KHANDSUREN AND HER KIDS
Children are given animals to care for from a young age, to teach them compassion.
STARTING OUT
Animal welfare is of the utmost importance to the herders. Herder Buyandelger explains, ‘Herds grow when there is love and respect.’