Kangaroos and Californians

Courtesy Google Images

California has prohibited the trade of kangaroo parts since 1971. However, lobbying from the Australian government, sports equipment manufacturers and the kangaroo industry led to a temporary exemption of this longstanding ban. 

Kangaroo skins are most commonly used for high-end soccer cleats, gloves and other leather products. The existence of new high-tech synthetic materials have rendered kangaroo leather unnecessary for superior performance. In fact, these new materials and greater awareness of the inherent cruelty in the kangaroo hunting industry, have inspired some professional soccer players like David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo to stop wearing cleats made from kangaroo skin.

This exemption is due to expire at the end of 2015 thus reinstating the ban! We, along with a multitude of other organizations around the world, are watching closely to see if a move is made by Australia to submit legislation that would extend the exemption and/or repeal the ban. We have taken some preemptive measures to deal with this and are poised to respond instantly if such legislation is introduced.

The mechanics of kangaroo hunting are cruel and in its current state is jeopardizing the viability of the species.

Essentially, if our legislators do nothing, the ban will be reinstated. Seems like a job they can do!!