Let's face it we cannot live without cotton. In fact, you're probably wearing something made from cotton as you read this. Why not? After all cotton is one of the most popular and the best selling fabrics in the world. But have you ever stopped to wonder where it comes from and how it's grown?
Chances are the cotton you are wearing is made from cotton grown using conventional methods, which means the use of large amounts of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers to cultivate this cotton. As a result, dangerous chemicals go into the air, soil and water around the cotton fields, harming and killing farm workers and wildlife.
Fret no more as there is a satisfying alternative...
These days, you hear almost everybody (us included!) going on about organic, organic and more organic. So what really is organic and why all the hype?
Organic is a method of production and not characteristics of the food or produce. Organic farming is cultivation of plants without synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. Organic farming differs from conventional farming in both its methods and more importantly in its effects. Studies so far have shown that organic farming requires less water, uses fewer and always natural pesticides which are less harmful to humans and the ecosystem. Did you know that before World War II, organic farming was the only option for farmers?
Organic agriculture has other important environmental benefits. By not using synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, organic agriculture reduces the pollution of ground water, prevents soil erosion and promotes biodiversity. It also helps to minimize the greenhouse effect and global warming through its ability to trap carbon in the soil. Organic farming helps small and poor farmers in countries like India since it offers economic benefits in terms of yields, costs benefits and employment.
To be certified organic, the process is strictly managed and supervised. The farmer must have his farm and equipment inspected by an independent agency to verify that it meets the required standards and complies by the rules regarding organic cotton farming. The farm should be deemed pesticide and insecticide free for 3 years before organic crop can be planted. Agency provides the farm and the company with a certificate proving that the produce is 'certified organic.'
Of all organic fibers, organic cotton is one of the most popular amongst environmentally conscious people who want to do their share in protecting this precious planet that we live in.
Non -organic clothes may not directly harm your skin but think about this for a second - if the chemicals are strong enough to kill pests, the chemicals are strong enough to kill animals and seriously harm people.
Enough said. Let's keep demanding for organic, organic and more organic!
