When it comes to fashion, if it looks great it should be worn. When it’s close to our skin, it should be safe. When it’s thrown out, it should be recycled. Sadly, these simple thoughts are not what is occurring in our world.

The thought, when it looks good, it should be worn should be a simple thought.  A thought that doesn't have us wondering about if it is also sustainably made.  Shouldn't everything be sustainably made?? Hopefully the power of the consumer will make this happen sooner rather than later.  To have this power we need knowledge.  Knowledge of key sourcing and manufacturing points to look for.  In this instance we are looking at the benefits of organic cotton.    

Cotton is one of the oldest plant-to-fabric crops in the world and is the most produced fabric on the planet today.  The widespread use of cotton stemmed from its easy transition from plant to fabric – it needs no processing or chemicals, and can go from the stem to a spinning wheel.  Cotton being mainly made of cellulose, is ideal for our skin to breathe, and it is naturally absorbent. It is incredibly versatile and has been used throughout history for all the classic pieces; jeans, t-shirts, towels, tents, and even coffee filters, to name a few. 

Unfortunately, mainstream cotton crops produce the third highest pesticide use in America, after soy and corn.  Pesticide poisoning is happening all over the world from cash crops such as Cotton.  According to the World Health Organization up to 20,000 deaths each year are caused by pesticide poisoning in developing countries. Gross.  Cotton is also a very thirsty crop. It takes over 2,700 litres of water to make a t-shirt, and 11,000 litres of water to make a pair of jeans.  This is insane when you stop and think about it.  Montsanto's GMO cotton crops are taking over as well.  They were suppose to enable farmers to not use pesticides but this has not been the case.

This is why we all need to turn to organic cotton, and here are more great reasons why;

Reduces environmental footprint.

Organic cotton is pesticide free! What a shocker, we don't actually need all that pesticide or GMO'd seeds.  See ya later Montsanto!  No toxic chemicals are used in the growing of organic cotton. It doesn’t damage the soil, has less impact on the air and uses 88% less water and 62% less energy.   Organic gardening relies more on grey water, and water recycling. This saves our planet!  

Promotes safe work & better livlihood.

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. It also means farmers grow more than one crop which supplements their food and income.

Impacts our food system.

Organic cotton is grown from organic cotton seeds. Cotton seed oil is used in a variety of food products such as cookies, chips and vegetable oil, and is also fed to livestock. So while cotton fiber is not something we put in our body, the by-product can make its way into our diets.

By choosing organic over conventional cotton you have the purchasing power to influence brands, manufacturers and even farmers.  The more we purchase organic cotton, the more available it will become, eventually making it more affordable for everyone.

It’s time for a change; to thrive in the future we need to repair the fashion industry.  Choosing organic cotton is a step in the right direction when buying new. 

Sincerely

-JC

Some brands to look for that practice the use of Organic Cotton when buying new;

KOTN - Their products are made with the principles of considered design, relentless quality, honest value, and positive impact. For men, women, and the home.

Frank and Oak – Canadian-designed minimalist fashion, ethically & *some* locally made.  For men and women.

Yoga Jeans – Handcrafted jeans in their own factory in Quebec with eco-friendly practices.  They claim that everyday is earth day which we couldn't agree with more.

Of course we say buy used, but we may be biased!