The Pope wearing Ermine Fur

Though I post this - I do not have an opinion.
I honor that many humans eat meat.  I also honor that historically, animal fur was worn to keep the body warm.
Further, though faux fur is touted by many environmental and concerned citizens, the production of many of this fake furs is extremely detrimental to the environment.  Production of synthetics is an often overlooked pollutant of our society.
Again though, I cannot but state facts, as I too participate in many activities daily that contribute to the poisoning both of my body and the earth....
So here are a few facts...

from Wikipedia: The stoat (Mustela erminea), also known as the ermine or short-tailed weasel...is listed among the 100 "world's worst invasive species".
from Wikipedia: Fake fur is made from several materials including blends of acrylic and modacrylic polymers derived from coal, air, water, petroleum and limestone. Unlike natural real fur, these materials can take a long time to break down (anywhere from 500 to 1,000 years).
2008 VATICAN CITY – An Italian animal rights group called on Pope Benedict XVI to stop wearing fur out of “respect for the sacredness of the lives of all living creatures.”...
"In an interview in 2000, before becoming pope, Benedict said he opposed factory farming and the fattening of geese to make foie gras. "Animals too are God's creatures," he said, "creatures we must respect as companions in creation and as important elements in creation.""

2012 Ash Wednesday
The pope wore an ermine-trimmed crimson cape to protect him from the chilly, early evening air

Another pondering is the production of silk.  Though some humane production occurs, the live boiling of catepillars might be considered as well.