Organic cotton was first produced in the 1980s. However, it only gained the attention of the world a few years ago. In fact, well-known brands such as H&M and Marks & Spencer have pledged to switch from using conventional cotton to organic cotton.
But is it really worth it? Is organic cotton environmentally friendly?
It saves water
According to the World Wildlife Federation (WWF), around 5,283 gallons of water are needed to come up with just 2 pounds of conventional cotton. If you don’t know how much water that is, imagine this: a 5,000-gallon pool takes 9 hours to fill up with a regular-sized hose.
Now, that’s a lot of water needed to produce a little cotton! And 2 pounds isn’t even enough to make a pair of jeans. With many countries such as Libya, Jordan, and Yemen experiencing water shortage, conventional cotton production is definitely a waste of our natural resources.
On the other hand, organic cotton takes 91 percent less water to produce. Organic farming in general leads to healthier and environment-friendly soils. These soils have the ability to hold water longer, which helps them survive drought.
So, if you want to save water, organic cotton is the way to go.
It reduces climate change.
Organic cotton farming emits less greenhouse gas versus conventional cotton farming. To be specific, it emits 46 percent less greenhouse gas. This is due to the soils used in organic cotton farming.
Soils actually play a huge role in the environment. It can either mitigate or contribute to global warming, depending on how it’s used. Fortunately, organic cotton farmers use practices that are kind to the soils.
When soils are used properly, they can store carbon. This lessens carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere, which mitigates climate change.
Organic cotton farming not only saves water, but it also helps save the earth from global warming.
It doesn’t use harmful pesticides.
Did you know that conventional cotton crop makes up 16 percent of the synthetic pesticides used worldwide? If that doesn’t sound much to you, that’s millions of toxic pesticides in pounds!
Conventional farmers rely heavily on synthetic pesticides for their crops. It does a great job of keeping pests at bay or eliminating them completely. Unfortunately, it harms other living organisms, their own health, and the environment in the process.
On the other hand, organic cotton farmers rely more on natural methods to control diseases, weeds, and pests. They work with nature, not against it, to grow their crops. They take on a more holistic approach to promote environmental sustainability.
Now, that’s what you call responsible farming.
It helps farmers earn more.
Unlike conventional cotton farming, organic cotton farming is beneficial to farmers. It gives organic farmers an opportunity to earn more while promoting environmental sustainability.
For instance, organic farming allows farmers to grow different crops at the same time. Aside from organic cotton, they can grow other crops, too. This gives them an additional source of income, which they can’t achieve with conventional cotton farming.
In addition, organic farming allows farmers to be independent. Genetically modified (GM) cotton seeds are not used in this type of farming, which lets farmers use their own seeds instead yearly. Conventional farmers, however, are reliant on GM companies for their supply of genetically modified cotton seeds.
As a result, organic farmers have more control over their crops and profit.
It protects the health of farmers and their families
Growing conventional cotton is actually harmful to the health of farmers. They are often exposed to toxic pesticides, which they end up inhaling in the process of growing cotton. This weakens their immune system, creates health complications, and can even lead to death.
Unfortunately, pesticides don’t stay within the confines of the farm. It causes water and air pollution in the area, which also affects their families and the rest of the community.
Since cotton is one of the most in-demand raw materials, switching to organic cotton will help save the lives of many.
It’s more durable
Organic cotton is not only softer than conventional cotton. It’s actually more durable!
Unlike with conventional cotton, the processing of organic cotton doesn’t involve strong chemicals. This helps organic cotton retain its qualities such as its durable fibers.
As a result, products made from organic cotton actually last longer and look better. Yes, it’s possible to be kind to the environment without sacrificing style.
It’s safer for the skin
Have you experienced itching upon wearing a shirt? How about sneezing after blowing your nose with toilet paper?
There are plenty of materials that aren’t safe for the skin. These items contain chemicals such as dyes and traces of pesticides, which harm your health. If a certain material is causing you rashes, dizziness, or headaches, opt for organic cotton instead.
Organic cotton has no chemicals, which makes it safe for all skin types. In fact, it’s the most recommended material for baby clothes! And if it’s safe for babies, it’s safe for everyone.
You will easily find clothes in the market made from organic cotton. Even toiletries made from organic cotton, like LastTissue, now exists. Not only are they good for the skin, but they’re also good for the environment.
Are you ready to switch to organic cotton?
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