An Ethical Approach to Sericulture: Production of Peace Silk in Hatay/Turkey

Abstract

One of the earliest fibers used by mankind is silk, which was first cultivated in China. Mulberry silk is produced from Bombyx Mori which feeds on mulberry tree leaves. Bombyx Mori silkworm, hatching from its egg after 8-10 days of incubation, starts spinning its cocoon around itself on the 25th or 28th day. These cocoons are subjected to dry heat or boiling water which kills the pupae. Most of the silk consumers in Turkey are not aware of the fact that the silkworms are killed before completing their natural life span. On the other hand, the number of consumers has been rising in the world who wants to wear silk without harming the animals. In this study sericulture was done in an ethical way to produce peace silk fabrics and some of the mechanical properties of the fabrics were determined. This study is of value, raising awareness about peace silk and ethical production.