Why did we choose organic cotton?

        

If you look at the clothes you are wearing, unless you’re making a conscious decision, you might not realise what materials have actually gone into making it.The chances are, you have heard of ‘organic cotton’, but you may consider this to be a marketing gimmick.

Believe it or not, the organic label is more than just a marketing ploy.

Truly organic cotton is grown from non-genetically modified plants, and without the use of any synthetic agricultural chemicals such as fertilisers or pesticides.Its production is supposed to promote and enhance biodiversity and biological cycles. Put simply, it’s a conscious production process for a better world.

Producing organic cotton reduces the overall environmental footprint, compared to the traditional methods. It can also be traced back to the root, and is processed sustainably, giving it the GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) assurance.

GOTS is the worldwide processing standard for textiles made from organic fibres and confirms both our environmental and social standards.

         

         

But how is organic cotton really different?

         

 Less resources for production

 

80% of organic cotton is produced using rain water.

This not only reduces the requirements on the water regeneration cycle, but with the absence of chemicals, water is generally safer and cleaner. This is vitally important, as it’s estimated that by 2025 two-thirds of the world’s population will be facing a water shortage.

Organic production methods use 62% less energy, and with no toxic chemicals going into the atmosphere, air quality is also improved.The soil is a better place too, with no harmful pesticides and insecticides damaging the soil where the crops are grown.

So the more we can do now, the better our future will look.

        

Famers and their lives

         

As well as being better for the planet, there are huge benefits for the lives of our cotton farmers too. Farmers and their families are not exposed to chemicals in the field, their food or water systems. With no damage to the soil, they can also grow more than one crop, meaning that they face better financial prospects too.

The wellbeing of people is deeply rooted in our values, and we only want the best for our farmers. So this is a major driving force in why we choose GOTS organic cotton.

         

Why choosing organic can change the future?

         

Organic cotton is used to make all kinds of items. Unlike non-organic farming methods which use chemicals, organic cotton farming and processing methods do not break down the cotton fibres. This means that organic fabrics are so much softer to touch - perfect for delicate children’s skin, but also more durable and harder wearing.

That’s why it is used in everything from bedding, to toys, and even nappies, and you may not even realise that when you buy them. It is mind-blowing to think that it still only contributes 1% of cotton produced globally!

Making the decision to consciously choose it therefore, means that alongside brands like us, you’re helping organic cotton to grow.You are investing in water conservation, cleaner air, better soil, and improved conditions for farmers.

That’s something that Turtledove London can all believe in.