Benefits to Nepal
One of the greatest benefits of Yak fur winter wear products is one needs only to extend what is already a vital resource in Nepal. Yaks are a part of Nepalese indigenous culture, in one case study of the village of Langtang showed that 73% of people said pastoralism played a primary, secondary or tertiary contribution to household income (McVeigh, 2004). Due to the multiple complimentary products that result from Yak pastoralism increasing herd sizes increase both availability of Yak and down fur (Bachman, 1985; FAO, 2003). Yaks produce a rich, highly demanded milk, but have small udders and therefore there are many economic benefits to increasing supply (FAO, 2003b). A decrease in marginal costs can be seen as herd size increases from 15 heads to 45, as an effect of economies of scale (Dong. S. K., L. Wen, Zhu L, J. P. Lassoie, Z. L. Yan, K. K. Shrestha, 2009). The coarsest hairs while too thick for the clothing industry, is used in ropes and tent making by Nepalese pastoralists (FAO, 2006).
The production of Yak fur winter wear does not only reap benefits for the pastoralists, but also presents opportunities in the textile industry. By processing and manufacturing a winter wear line, one increases the value of the fur, as well as present job opportunities for women and the physically disabled who are unable to find employment in hard labour (Rost, 2007). A sociocultural benefit is that through designing the aesthetic aspect of the winter wear line, the Nepalese can portray their rich heritage and unique artistic style proudly.
The production of Yak fur winter wear does not only reap benefits for the pastoralists, but also presents opportunities in the textile industry. By processing and manufacturing a winter wear line, one increases the value of the fur, as well as present job opportunities for women and the physically disabled who are unable to find employment in hard labour (Rost, 2007). A sociocultural benefit is that through designing the aesthetic aspect of the winter wear line, the Nepalese can portray their rich heritage and unique artistic style proudly.