With the trend toward eco friendly apparel growing, the use of organic fibers, specifically organic cotton, is growing as well. The Organic Trade Association (OTA) reports that in 2009, organic fiber sales in the U.S. grew by 10.4 percent over the previous year, reaching $521 million. The future looks promising as well, with organic fiber products appearing in more mainstream outlets, led by large U.S. textile retailers.
But why should consumers consider organic cotton products?
Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and build biologically diverse agriculture.
Third-party certification organizations verify that organic producers use only methods and materials allowed in organic production. All cotton sold as organic in the United States must meet strict federal regulations covering how the cotton is grown.
Conventionally grown cotton, on the other hand, uses 25 percent of all insecticides and 10 percent of all pesticides, including many that the Environmental Protection Agency classifies as the most toxic kind.
While it is true that products made from organic cotton may sometimes cost more, the OTA says that the prices reflect the true cost of its production.
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