Picture this; you’re browsing through racks of clothing in a store. The latest trends, and popping colours, all calling for your attention. But hidden beneath the vibrant dyes and trendy patterns lies a tale that’s far from colourful. It’s a tale of our clothes before they reach our wardrobes. Enter the scene – organic cotton.
We all love our jeans and tees, right? But many of us are unaware of the murky backstory. Regular cotton farming, the stuff that makes up our favourite basics, guzzles water like a car burning diesel on a Scottish highlands. In fact, the World Bank paints a grim picture, estimating about 20% of industrial water pollution comes from textile treatment and dyeing.
Organic Cotton
Now, imagine a superhero swooping in to combat this problem. That’s organic cotton for you. Organic cotton farming is like the Batman of textiles, combating water waste by an astonishing 91%.
And its superpowers don’t stop at water conservation. Growing organic cotton is a chemical-free affair. No harmful pesticides, no synthetic fertilisers, just pure respect for Mother Earth. It’s kind of like growing a home garden, where you use natural compost instead of chemical fertilisers and encourage birds or ladybugs to take care of pests. The result is healthier soil and safer farming communities.
Social Impact
While we’re talking about respect, let’s not forget the people crafting our clothes. Supporting brands that source organic cotton should go hand-in-hand with ensuring these brands provide safe, fair working conditions. We need to champion those who value both our planet and the people on it.
Our wallets are powerful tools. Think of it like casting a vote in an election. Each purchase we make is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. Picking that organic cotton tee over a regular one is like voting for a greener planet and healthier communities.
Drawbacks
Yes, I hear you; sustainable clothing can sometimes be expensive. But think about it. The price tag on a fast fashion tee might not reflect the environmental degradation or the low wages paid to workers. It’s like ordering a cheap burger and not seeing the hidden costs of unhealthy eating or factory farming.
Is organic cotton better quality? Nope.
Organic doesn’t mean better, at least in terms of look or feel. “It’s a myth that organic cotton results in softer, higher-quality fabrics,” said Kavita Mathur, PhD, an associate professor at the Department of Textile and Apparel, Technology and Management at North Carolina State University’s Wilson College of Textiles.
When clothing originates from organic cotton, it’s often derived from a type known as short-staple. As the name suggests, these cotton fibres are shorter, which can lead to fabrics with a somewhat rougher texture and lesser durability. Moreover, due to the unique harvesting methods required for organic cotton, it’s challenging to spin long, seamless yarn from it, resulting in a slightly bumpy appearance and texture.
If you’re someone who prefers not to compromise, you’ll be pleased to know you can find cotton that’s both organic and of the Pima variety – that is smoother, stronger, and more flexible than shorter-staple varieties. However, given that less than 1% of the world’s cotton is organic, and organic pima is even scarcer, it comes with a steeper price tag.
Is organic cotton better for the environment? Yes.
In many regards, organic cotton is a lower-impact crop than conventionally grown cotton. Significantly, there are the potential benefits of eschewing synthetic herbicides and other pesticides. And studies suggest that organic farming could contribute to better soil health, especially if regenerative farming practices are used.
Circular Fashion
Organic cotton is part of a bigger movement in fashion – sustainability. It’s about embracing the ‘3 Rs’ – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. This isn’t just a slogan for waste management; it’s a mantra for sustainable living. As Vivienne Westwood famously said, buy less, choose well, and make it last. Extend the life of your clothes by washing them properly. Opt for cold water washes and bypass the dryer to minimise environmental impact. Air-drying not only consumes less energy but is also gentler on the fabric.
For clothes that are still in good condition, consider reselling or donating them. Repurpose worn-out garments into cleaning cloths or art projects, and ensure to recycle any textiles that can’t be reused.
Conclusion
Sustainability isn’t a passing trend. It’s a lifestyle statement that our planet desperately needs. By opting for organic cotton, we’re not just updating our wardrobes but helping to weave a greener narrative for the fashion industry. So, remember, your fashion choices matter next time you’re out shopping.