In times of sustainable development, ecology and the fair trade, organic cotton has become a major trend in sustainable fashion. Organic cotton differs from conventional cotton not only in its cultivation method, but also in the benefits it offers to the environment, health and society.
What is organic cotton?
Organic cotton, also called ecological cotton, is a natural fiber that is grown without pesticides, fertilizers or synthetic chemicals. Unlike traditional cotton, which uses a lot of these products, organic cotton is made from natural fibers that are grown without pesticides, fertilizers or synthetic chemicals. organic cotton It is based on cultivation methods that respect the environment and promote biodiversity.
This cotton is grown on certified pesticide- and insecticide-free land, and its production is based on crop rotation, which improves soil fertility. In addition, organic fertilizers such as humus are used to maintain soil health, and pests are controlled using biological methods, such as the introduction of beneficial insect species.
One of the main differences with conventionally produced cotton is that the use of genetically modified crops is avoided. The seeds used in organic cotton are not genetically modified, which guarantees a healthier production for both producers and consumers.
Conventional cotton cultivation and its impacts
Conventional cotton farming is considered one of the most environmentally-friendly. Approximately 25% of the world's insecticides are used in cotton farming. This not only has a devastating impact on ecosystems, but also on the health of farm workers, who are constantly exposed to dangerous chemicals.
In addition, conventional cotton uses large amounts of water, which contributes to the destruction of water sources in regions severely affected by drought. This contrasts with the organic cotton, which is grown more sustainably and significantly optimizes water use.
Advantages of organic cotton over conventional cotton
Organic cotton offers multiple benefits for both the environment and consumers. Key benefits include:
- Environmental Impact Reduction:By not using pesticides or chemical fertilizers, organic cotton cultivation helps preserve biodiversity and protect ecosystems.
- Improving working conditions: Farmers who grow organic cotton are not exposed to dangerous chemicals and work in safer and healthier conditions. In addition, many organic certifications guarantee fair working conditions.
- Higher quality of fabric: Organic cotton fibres are not exposed to harsh chemicals during processing, resulting in softer, more breathable and durable fabrics. These garments are often more suitable for sensitive skin and, being more durable, have a longer lifespan.
- health benefits: The skin is a porous organ that absorbs the substances it comes into contact with. By wearing clothes made from organic cotton, especially for babies or people with allergies, the risk of irritation and allergic reactions is reduced.
Organic cotton certifications
It is important to ensure that the garments are organic cotton are duly certified. There are several certifications that guarantee that a product has been produced in compliance with organic farming standards. The most common are:
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): This certification guarantees that at least 70% of the fibers in a product are organic and that fair and ecological labor practices have been followed throughout the production process.
- Organic Content Standard (OCS): This certification verifies that the product contains between 5% and 100% organic fiber, although it does not take into account environmental or labor aspects such as GOTS.
Health benefits of organic cotton
Wearing clothes made from organic cotton not only provides greater comfort and softness, but also reduces exposure to toxic substances. This is particularly important for people with sensitive skin or prone to allergies. Organic cotton has not been treated with harsh chemicals, making the garments hypoallergenic and kinder to the skin.
Another key aspect is its ability to breathe and regulate body temperature. Being a more natural and pure fabric, it allows adequate ventilation of the body, keeping it cool and comfortable, even in hot climates.
Benefits of organic cotton for the environment
One of the greatest benefits of organic cotton is the smaller ecological footprint it generates. By avoiding the use of pesticides and other chemicals, aquifers are preserved and water pollution is reduced. In addition, organic farming uses a 80% less water compared to conventional cotton, since it is generally grown on land that retains moisture better and takes advantage of rainwater.
Furthermore, the use of non-GMO seeds and respect for natural soil cycles contribute to maintaining a balance in local ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and environmental health.
Organic cotton also has a positive impact on the fight against climate change. By not relying on petroleum-based products, such as many fertilizers and pesticides used in conventional agriculture, greenhouse gas emissions are reduced.
Benefits for agricultural workers
The cultivation of organic cotton It also improves the working conditions of farmers. By not being exposed to toxic pesticides, the health risks for workers are significantly reduced. In addition, certifications, such as GOTS, ensure that producers receive fair wages and work in safe conditions.
This results in a positive impact not only on their physical health, but also on their social rights, as it promotes fair trade and labor exploitation is avoided, which unfortunately remains common in conventional cotton cultivation.
Investing in organic cotton products helps improve the quality of life of all people involved in the production process, from farmers to those who make the garments.
Opt for organic cotton It not only involves choosing a more environmentally sustainable option, but also opting for ethical fashion that respects both people and the planet.