Cotton has always been perceived as clean, fresh and organic. We wear it on our bodies, sleep in it on our beds and drape it in on our windows. But if cotton is natural, why are we seeing an increase in organic cotton? It’s an important question to ask, and here are some answers…

Why conventionally grown Cotton is BAD (and not so natural):

Conventionally grown cotton uses 25% of the world’s pesticides and 10% of the world’s insecticides. Almost 50% of the chemicals used to grow cotton are considered “possible”, “likely”, or “known” human carcinogens by the US environmental protection agency. (Did you know pesticides were originally developed from World War 2 nerve gases?)

Cotton farming affects the environment surrounding the farm: the soil, water, plant and animal life. Not only are the birds and the bees affected, but the farm workers and their communities are also at a significant health risk.

Why Organic Cotton is GOOD (and oh so wonderful):

Organic cotton farming is grown without pesticides. How do the farmers do it? These farms rotate their crops every few years by growing something other than cotton. This way, they create a diverse environment that is sustainable, enhances the soil quality and lowers irrigation levels. A natural environment provides habitat for natural predators who keep pests away.

By growing organically, farmers get a 50% increase in their income - due to a 40% reduction in costs - and the 20% premium they receive for producing organic cotton allows them to feed, clothe, educate and provide healthcare for their children. (Katherine Hamnett).

And no, not all organic cotton is dull, speckled and “hippy-looking”. When shopping for organic cotton or other eco-friendly fabrics, look at the labels and tags. If a company is being sustainable and socially responsible they usually advertise it.

For more reading:

http://www.katharinehamnett.com/Campaigns/Clean-Up-Or-Die/Introduction