А знаете ли вы, что

Dear Sir, dear Madam,

Thank you for your recent correspondence outlining your views on the use of
Kangaroo leather. We hope that you will allow us to reply setting out our
policy on its use. We would also like to point out that this is an automated
reply.

Vegetarians International Voice for Animals, an animal rights group based in
Britain, has asked adidas-Salomon to stop using kangaroo leather in the
manufacture of its soccer boots, claiming that the killing of kangaroos is
“cruel and barbaric” and that it will lead to the “extinction” of these animals.


adidas-Salomon has a policy of openness and engagement with our many
stakeholders. We listen to all views. We have therefore studied Viva!’s concerns
very closely since Viva! started its campaign in August 2002.

As a company, adidas-Salomon is committed to sustainable business practices and
we apply these to the selection of the materials used in our products. We also
believe that if future generations are to inherit a world rich in ecological
diversity, it is important for everyone in society to help conserve and protect
wildlife. Consequently, the company does not source leather from any endangered
or threatened species. Nor do we accept the use of leathers in our products
which have involved the inhumane treatment of animals, whether these animals are
wild or domesticated, i.e. farmed.

All kangaroos, except for those in zoos or wildlife parks, are free ranging wild
animals. While it is impossible to determine the exact number of kangaroos in
Australia, the population of the four most common species - those which are
harvested - has been estimated by the Australian Government to be more than 50
million. None of the common species of kangaroo that are harvested are
considered endangered animals.

To have a better understanding of the issues raised by Viva!, we have met the
companies which supply kangaroo leather to our footwear manufacturers and have
examined current industry practices. We have also met with their parent body,
the Kangaroo Leather Association of Australia, and with representatives of
Environment Australia, the Government agency that regulates the harvesting of
kangaroos. The Australian Government has strict rules for those involved in
kangaroo culling. The Code of Practice for the Humane Shooting of Kangaroos,
developed by all wildlife agencies in Australia, clearly defines the species
that can be commercially harvested, sets out an achievable standard of humane
conduct and is the minimum requirement for people who harvest kangaroos. As part
of its wildlife management program the Australian Government is reviewing its
Code of Practice on an ongoing basis.

Based on previous meetings and the current information supplied to us, we have
concluded that Viva! is misinformed and that their claims are misleading. We
trust the Australian Government’s assurances and expertise in this matter.

In order to read through the fact sheet provided by the Australian government
which explains their policy in more detail, please refer to the following
webpage:
www.ea.gov.au/biodiversity/trade-use/publications/kangaroo/humane-culling.html


Yours sincerely,

adidas-Salomon AG
Social and Environmental Affairs

Вообще-то кенгуру как полевые грызуны живут и размножаются. Их и машинами давят (особенно в сельской местности - все машины с рамами-кенгурятниками) и в ресторанах мясо едят (вкусно, надо сказать). Насколько можно заметить, истребление этим животным не особо угрожает. Так что - очередная акция - пальцем в небо.