Cotton has become one of the most popular fabrics in the world. In fact, it’s so beloved by shoppers that cotton growers have resorted to using artificial means to speed up growing production in order to keep up with demand.
As one can imagine, the excessive use of pesticides does far more than simply help the cotton grow faster. It also has a harmful effect on the environment and the earth’s natural resources by damaging soil and water. Ultimately, this disrupts the ecological balance and leaves the field unable to grow other crops.
Sadly, this is not the first time fashion has negatively affected our environment and ecosystems. From polluting our oceans to contributing to climate change, it seems like fashion is prone to having a harmful strain on our planet. That’s why here at Poème Clothing, we’re committed to making our brand’s ecological footprint as small as possible.
One of the ways we do this is by using eco-friendly textiles that are not only better for our planet, but also for your body. These include linen, rayon, bamboo, hemp and of course, organically cultivated cotton.
Is organic cotton really better?
To start with, it’s completely handpicked. This maintains the purity of the fibers by ensuring that no fiber is damaged in the picking process. As a result, organic cotton products are softer to the touch and more durable because of their longer fibers.
Organic cotton is made from natural seeds, meaning that it does not use pesticides or other toxic chemicals. The use of safer alternatives to chemical dyes is one of the main reasons organic cotton products are better for your skin and friendlier for our planet.
Finally, GMO cotton degrades soil quality, requires more water, and ultimately leads to unhealthy crops. In contrast, organic cotton protects the ecosystem as it requires less irrigation and reduces water waste. It also provides a safer working environment for farmers and manufacturers.
While the growing popularity for cotton may encourage growers to use artificial means to keep up with demand, the good news is that you can be part of the solution. How? By considering the environmental and societal impacts of the places you shop at before making a purchase. We urge you to practice conscious shopping and only buy from brands whose practices reflect that of ethically-made goods, sustainability, and fair trade practices.
You can start by buying clothing made from organically cultivated cotton. Not only is this a more sustainable and eco-friendly choice, but your skin will feel the difference too!