Yes it is! The question of its ethical sourcing revolves around the method of collection and the impact on the eider duck populations. Natural Harvesting Process: Eiderdown is unique because the ducks naturally shed it. Female eiders line their nests with the down to keep their eggs warm. Once the ducklings leave the nest, collectors harvest the down without harming the birds. In many places, especially in Canada, this is a centuries-old tradition. Protection Measures: In regions like Canada, the eider ducks are protected, and harvesting eiderdowns can incentivize local people to ensure the well-being of the eider populations. The ducks are unafraid of humans and often nest nearby, allowing for an easier harvest. Limited Harvest: The supply is limited because eiderdown is naturally shed and harvested only once the ducklings leave the nest. This scarcity contributes to its high price. Certification: In some regions, eiderdown is certified to ensure it's genuinely and ethically sourced. For example, in Canada & Iceland, there's a certification process that verifies the purity and origin of the down.