What is organic cotton?
Organic cotton is cotton that is produced and certified according to organic farming standards. Its production supports the health of soil, ecosystems and people by using natural processes instead of artificial inputs. Organic cotton farming does not use toxic chemicals or GMOs (genetically modified organisms). Instead, it combines tradition, innovation and science to benefit the shared environment and promote a good quality of life for everyone involved.
Why choose organic cotton?
- Reduces the environmental footprint
No toxic chemicals are used in growing organic cotton. It does not damage the soil, has less impact on the air and uses 88% less water and 62% less energy. Conventional cotton farming uses about 16% of the world's insecticides and 7% of its pesticides.
- A model for the future
By 2025, two thirds of the world's population may face water shortages. Organic cotton is 80% rain-fed, which reduces pressure on local water sources. The absence of chemicals also means the water is cleaner and safer. Cotton is often irrigated in water-scarce regions, and making a conventional cotton T-shirt takes 2700 litres of water.
- The fair price of sustainability
When you buy organic cotton, you are investing in water protection, clean air, better soil and farmers' livelihoods. That's why organic cotton may be somewhat more expensive.
- Promotes safe work and better livelihoods
Growing organic cotton keeps farmers and their families safe. They are not exposed to toxic chemicals in the field or through their food and water supply.
- Affects our food system
Organic cotton is grown from organic cotton seeds. Cottonseed oil is used in a variety of foods such as biscuits, crisps and vegetable oil, and it is also fed to livestock.
- A chance to make a difference!
Caring for the world and the people we share it with is our own choice. Choosing organic cotton is part of that choice. In 2015, 26 million tonnes of cotton were produced worldwide, much of which went to the clothing industry. Organic cotton makes up less than 1% of that. Choosing organic over conventional cotton is a force that influences brands, manufacturers and farming alike. Let's change that number.
Organic cotton can be found in everything from clothing, footwear and home furnishings (towels, bathrobes, sheets, blankets, bed linen), children's products (clothing, toys, nappies) and personal care items (hygiene products, make-up remover pads and cotton buds) all the way to stationery.
When you choose organic cotton instead of conventional cotton, it helps save water, energy and carbon dioxide emissions on every garment. That may not seem like much at first glance, but once you start adding up the potential impact across your whole wardrobe, it really adds up. Every small step contributes to the sustainability of our environment!
Our range also includes organic cotton shopping bags, T-shirts, hoodies and more. If you'd like to do your bit for environmental sustainability, get in touch with us and order products made from organic cotton: 👉 allprint@allprint.io
