The challenges of organic cotton today

The use of cotton is necessary for making textiles. Unfortunately, the cultivation and production methods surrounding this natural fiber are responsible for an ecological disaster. As a sustainable alternative, there is organic cotton. We explain its benefits and why it is an interesting option for consumers looking for eco-responsible products.

1/ Focus on an ecological certification

Organic cotton differs from traditional cotton in all the methods surrounding its production, but also by the labels. They guarantee the consumer a level of control over how the cotton is grown, its production process, ethics, etc. There are 3 of them:

• The GOTS label

  (Global Organic Textile Standard): created in 2006, it guarantees that items are produced from certified organic cotton, which therefore contains no harmful or allergenic substances. This label is the most comprehensive and strict. It certifies that at least 95% of the fibers used are organic and also, and above all, that the rights and conditions of workers are fair and respected. So you won't go wrong by choosing a product with this label

• The OEKO-TEX label

  : A textile label, it is more health-oriented. Generally, it guarantees the consumer that the product they are buying is safe for health. In other words, it is harmful neither to health nor to the skin. It comes in 7 types of labeling. Each covers a specific aspect, but all guarantee a neutral pH, as close as possible to that of the skin.

• The Step by OEKO-TEX label:

  This label goes even further than the OEKO-TEX label by guaranteeing fair working conditions and wages for workers, thus approaching the GOTS label.

• The Max Havelaar label

  : this is the ethical label. Consumers are assured that the finished product has complied with strict specifications based on economic, social and environmental criteria.

2/ 3 benefits of organic cotton

– Less polluting cultivation

Cotton cultivation is one of the most polluting in the world. According to the WHO, the production of this fiber covers "only" 2.5% of the world's cultivated areas, while requiring the consumption of 10 to 25% of pesticides. These chemicals are partly responsible for this ecological disaster. Solvents, chlorine, ammonia, dyes, heavy metals... All these harmful substances are discharged and contaminate soils, rivers, and also farmers.

The production of organic cotton, however, does not require the use of fertilizers and chemicals. Bleaching is done with hydrogen peroxide (unlike chlorine for traditional cotton) and dyeing is done without heavy metals.

– Less water-intensive cultivation

The production of a 120g cotton t-shirt requires 2,700 liters of water. Count 8,000 liters for an 800g pair of jeans. In comparison, taking a bath requires 150 to 200 liters of water. 13 baths are equivalent to the production of a single t-shirt...

Cotton irrigation therefore literally depletes water reserves.

But what about natural cotton?

The cultivation and production of organic cotton require up to 50% less water. Indeed, pollutants in conventional cotton cultivation are very water-intensive. Since no harmful substances are used in the manufacture of organic cotton textiles and products, consumption is therefore more economical. Organic soils also require less water.

– Preserved health

Health is also compromised through cotton production. Pesticides and harmful substances used in cotton production directly contaminate the people who handle them. In the front line? Workers and farmers. It should be noted that the world's leading cotton producer is India, and the region most affected by cases of toxicity is Punjab. The cancer rate is said to have increased by 50%, from 800,000 to 1,200,000 cases.

In addition, many pesticide residues remain in the products. Consumers pay the price through allergic reactions.

Organic cotton, on the other hand, represents an interesting health alternative because it is not loaded with pollutants. Its production limits risks for workers and is a clean option for consumers who want to be reassured.

You are now informed about organic cotton.

Know that at Carotte & Cie, we assure you that our products are made with mostly organic cottons certified GOTS or at least 100% certified Step by OEKO-TEX. The prints are also made with a water-based ink with a neutral OEKO-TEX pH.

And you, do you usually buy labeled products? Do you find it important?

Tell us everything in the comments!