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Organic cotton

Organic cotton is generally defined as cotton that is grown organically in subtropical countries such as India, Turkey, China and parts of the USA, from non-genetically modified plants and without the use of any synthetic agricultural chemicals such as fertilizers or pesticides other than those that allow certified eco-labeling. Its production supports the increase of biodiversity and reduces the negative impacts that arise during the cultivation of conventional cotton. Cotton covers 2.5% of the world's arable land, but uses 10-16% of the world's consumption of pesticides (including herbicides, insecticides and defoliants), which is more than any other crop. The significantly lower price of classic cotton is thus bought out by the destroyed soil and polluted surface waters. We support the sale of organic cotton products. The word “organic” conjures up images of farmers toiling in fields under a hot sun, growing fruits and vegetables without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. But what about organic cotton? Just as there are organic foods, there is also organic cotton clothing. Organic cotton is grown using methods that are gentle on the environment. Farmers who grow organic cotton do not use harmful chemicals on their crops. Organic cotton is better for the environment because it reduces pollution and conserves water. According to the National Cotton Council of America, it takes approximately one-third of a pound (0.15 kilograms) of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to produce one conventional cotton t-shirt [source: National Cotton Council]. With organic farming practices, that number drops dramatically since no synthetic chemicals are used in production. In addition, producing one pound (0.45 kilograms) of conventional cotton requires more than 2,700 gallons (10,000 liters) of water; only 302 gallons (1,140 liters) are needed to produce an equivalent amount of certified organic cotton [source: Green Peace]. As you can see, choosing certified organic clothing helps reduce your impact on the planet. When you buy certified organic clothes, you can be sure that they were made without child labor or forced labor practices commonly found in countries where conventional cotton is produced [source: Wear Your Voice Mag]. You might pay a little more for these items initially but know that your purchase supports sustainable farming practices and fair treatment of workers around the globe.