With sustainability becoming a major issue in recent times, we often come across the term “Organic Cotton.”
Even though it took us a little longer to get there, the idea is fairly unclear to many. And, this article will discuss everything that you need to know about organic cotton. All of us are familiar with cotton; it is widely used in several industries, primarily the clothing industry. Unfortunately, it is also one of the most chemically inclusive processes.
The workers cultivating cotton are exposed to highly dangerous chemicals; the Environmental Protection Agency even declared cotton cultivation a toxic intrusive process.
Organic cotton comes into play and removes the chemicals and the harsh working environment. On average, 151,079 metric tonnes of organic cotton are grown each year. That means 0.7% of global cotton production consists of organic cotton. India is the leading organic cotton producer, and approximately 219,000 farmers are involved in its cultivation.
What is Organic Cotton?
Organic cotton is cotton grown using eco-friendly methods, as it does not use chemicals in the process. It’s cultivation prevents damage to the soil as pesticides and fertilizers are avoided. Any forms of synthetic chemicals are avoided, and regulations also prevent the usage of genetically engineered seeds.
What is GOTS?
GOTS is the organization that ensures that the cultivation of the plant is done using eco-friendly processes. The facility is inspected, and on passing it, the certification is provided.
GOTS not only looks after the organic methods but also acts to improve the poor working conditions of the workers and ensure that they are working in ethical environments and are paid fair wages.
Cultivation of OC
OC is cultivated with the initial process of planting and growing, followed by harvesting of the crop. Once the crop is fully grown, it is cleaned and formed into cotton balls and moved forward to the manufacturing process, where the ball is spun into cotton yarn.
The yarns are further woven into fabrics, which are dyed into fabrics. These dyed fabrics give birth to our beloved clothes and are printed further into cool designs.
It is cultivated in more than 18 countries; it is the healthiest process and saves the soil from erosion and infertility. Weed growth is also prevented by using organic methods like crop rotation, mechanical weeding, and mulching. Pest growth is controlled with intercropping, crop rotation, and neem oil, which is a natural pesticide.
The entire process of manufacturing is organic and uses no petroleum, pesticides, formaldehyde, bleaches, or anti-wrinkling agents. Even the colours used are naturally procured.
Traditional Cotton vs. Organic Cotton
The disadvantages of Traditional Cotton
Like OC, conventional cotton also goes through an extensive period of processing before being turned into clothes. However, unlike organic cotton, most of these stages use chemicals like artificial colours, pesticides, fertilisers, herbicides, and more. These chemicals not only cause harm to the environment but also our health.
At least 1 million workers worldwide are hospitalised annually due to diseases from these chemicals. The price of fertilisers is paid by the workers and the environment.
The Benefits
Production saves water compared to traditional cotton; over 1,982 gallons of water can be saved. Organic cotton keeps the soil healthier through soil building techniques. This soil also prevents floods, and droughts, and keeps the soil healthy. It produces fewer greenhouse gases up to 46% when compared to traditional cotton.
Why Karmikh chooses GOTS-Certified Organic Cotton?
Karmikh chooses Organic Cotton over other fabrics, as it is one of the most sustainable fabrics. The cultivation of OC improves the lives of farmers and benefits the environment significantly.
Water pollution is 98% less than traditional cotton, making it a better choice for the planet. Biodiversity is preserved as chemical-free processes are used in all stages of its manufacturing.
Global issues such as climate change, global warming, deforestation, droughts, and floods can be tackled through organic processes, as they turn the soil into a carbon pit and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Apart from environmental benefits, GOTS also ensures the safety of the workers, giving us another huge reason for choosing GOTS Certified Organic Cotton. It is one of the most eco-logical fabrics available, which saves the environment and also feels comfortable, breathable, soft, luxurious, and also prevents rashes and itching.
The journey towards a sustainable future is full of hurdles. Choosing the right methods is essential for making a substantial difference. That’s why choosing Karmikh will not only keep you looking good but also feeling good, as you can reduce your carbon footprint immediately.
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