Difference between Organic Cotton and conventional cotton
Cotton has been one of the most exported and traded commodities for a very long time. It is considered to be the finest and purest fabric. It is a very versatile product that is used for the production of many commercial goods. However, what a lot of people do not consider is the effect cotton production has on the environment. Usually, people are persuaded to think that cotton is always ‘100%’ pure. This is incorrect and misleading. The purest and safest form of cotton is organic cotton.
Organic cotton is grown without any use of pesticides, fertilizers, or insecticides. Their growth is genetically altered, unlike the other plants. Organic cotton is produced by many countries in the world now; the largest ones being India, China, and Turkey. The production of organic cotton is increasing by 50% every year. The production methods of organic cotton have led to a substantial drop in the use of pesticides and other chemicals.
Organic cotton and conventional cotton are different, especially with respect to the environmental impacts they have. Productions of organic cotton are costlier in comparison to traditional or conventional cotton, but the costs can be justified. The pesticides used in conventional cotton constitute 16% of the world’s pesticide usage. This leads to considerable damage to the environment and also consumers to great extent. However, organic cotton is safe not only for the environment but also for the people.
Conventional cotton is produced by unnatural farming. They are one of the ordinary crops that are reared in an artificial way by spraying large amounts of pesticides and chemicals. Conventional and traditional cotton is used for creating finished goods and products. The best alternative to this kind of farming is organic farming. This kind of farming requires cotton to be grown in a field where pesticides have not been used continuously for at least 3 long years. Organic farming relies highly on natural inputs in comparison to inorganic farming that uses a lot of chemicals and pesticides.
Though organic farming is one of the best ways to produce cotton, it comes with intensive care and management. In this type of farming, pesticides are not used, instead pests are left to be dealt by insects. This way the natural food cycle is maintained. Organic cotton is preferred than conventional cotton for the number of advantages it offers for both the environment and the people.
Looking for affordable ethical clothing? Try Earth Wardrobe, they are on a mission to make sustainable clothing affordable for everyone.