While all cotton is made from natural plant fibers, organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic pesticides. Since cotton farming uses more insecticides than any other main crop, growing cotton organically is important for the environment.
When purchasing fabrics made from cotton, look for the “Organic Cotton” label to make a green difference. Watch this video to find out more.
Further Information
- Eco-Friendly Cotton and Soybean Insulation for Your Home (video)
- The Debate over Organic vs. Chemical Fertilizers (article)
- Organic Gardening 101 (article)
- Importance of Eating Organic Food (video)
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
I’ll be the first one to admit, some of the green ideas out there really don’t make a lot of sense at first glance. One good example is the push to use organic cotton.
Truthfully, I thought all cotton is organic by its nature. But the difference is that organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic pesticides. Now that may not seem important, but many farmers use more insecticides on cotton than any other single, major crop. That can cause leaching and runoff into the water table. But organic cotton farmers use natural fertilizers, like compost and animal manure, that release nitrogen already in the soil.
So when it’s time to buy more linens or tee-shirts, look for the “Organic Cotton” label on the package. It’s a smart way of supporting a healthy green for everyone.
