going organic

organic cotton is becoming an increasingly popular choice for those who are looking to make more sustainable choices in their clothing. as more people become aware of the negative environmental impacts of conventional cotton production, organic cotton has emerged as a viable alternative. this article will explore what organic cotton is, the benefits of using it in sports and casual wear, and why it is an ideal material for sustainable fashion.

what is organic cotton?

organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. instead, farmers use natural methods to control pests and diseases, such as crop rotation, beneficial insects, and composting. additionally, organic cotton is often grown using rainwater or other natural sources of water, rather than relying on irrigation systems. this helps to conserve water and prevent the pollution of rivers and other bodies of water.

why is organic cotton better for the environment?

there are several reasons why organic cotton is better for the environment than conventional cotton. one of the most significant is the reduction in the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. these chemicals can have a range of negative impacts, such as polluting waterways, harming wildlife, and causing health problems for farmers and their families. 

cotton production is the largest user of water among all agricultural commodities, accounting for more than half of the irrigated agricultural land globally. It requires 550-950 liters of water per square meter planted or around 15,000 liters of water for each kilogram of cotton produced. as a result, an average cotton t-shirt can use 2,700 liters of water, while an average pair of jeans can use over 10,000 liters of water. cotton production and processing are also significant sources of fresh water pollution. european consumers and policy-makers have a crucial role to play in addressing these severe impacts on water resources.

organic cotton production typically uses less water compared to conventional cotton production. organic cotton farming relies on rainwater rather than irrigation, and organic farming practices such as crop rotation and soil improvement help to retain soil moisture, reducing water needs. however, the exact amount of water savings can vary depending on the specific farming practices used, as well as the location and climate conditions of the farm. on average, organic cotton can use up to 91% less water than conventional cotton.

another benefit of organic cotton is that it supports biodiversity. because farmers who grow organic cotton use natural pest control methods, they are able to maintain a more diverse range of plants and animals on their farms. this helps to create a healthier ecosystem and can even lead to increased crop yields over time.

furthermore, organic cotton is often produced using fair labor practices. many organic cotton farmers are small-scale producers who are able to earn a fair price for their cotton. this helps to support local communities and can contribute to the development of sustainable farming practices.

why is organic cotton ideal for sports and leisure wear?

there are several reasons why organic cotton is an ideal fabric for sports and leisure wear. one of the most significant is its breathability. organic cotton fibers allow air to circulate around the body, which helps to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. this makes it a great choice for activewear, as it can help to keep athletes cool and comfortable during exercise.

additionally, organic cotton is soft and comfortable against the skin. this is important for both sports and casual wear, as it can help to prevent chafing and irritation. organic cotton is also naturally moisture-wicking, which means that it can help to draw sweat away from the body and keep the wearer feeling dry.

finally, organic cotton is durable and long-lasting. this is important for both sports and casual wear, as these types of clothing are often subjected to frequent washing and wear. organic cotton is able to withstand repeated washing and drying without losing its shape or color, which makes it a more sustainable choice over time.

how can you identify organic cotton clothing?

if you are interested in purchasing organic cotton clothing, there are several ways to identify it. one of the easiest is to look for a certification label, such as the global organic textile standard (gots) or the organic content standard (ocs). these labels indicate that the clothing has been made with organic cotton and has met certain environmental and social standards.

additionally, some clothing brands may advertise that they use organic cotton in their products. it is important to be aware, however, that not all brands are transparent about their sourcing practices. if you are unsure about a brand's commitment to sustainability, you can research their practices online or reach out to them directly to ask about their sourcing and production methods.

why we at SPLEISURE choose organic cotton for our products

organic cotton is a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional cotton. it is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, requires less water to grow, supports biodiversity, and is often produced using fair labor practices. when it comes to sports and casual wear, organic cotton is an ideal choice due to its breathability, comfort against the skin, moisture-wicking properties, and durability.

by choosing organic cotton clothing, we can make a positive impact on the environment and support sustainable farming practices. additionally, wearing organic cotton clothing can benefit the wearer by providing comfort and breathability, particularly during physical activity.

as the demand for sustainable clothing options continues to grow, it is likely that we will see an increase in the availability of organic cotton clothing. by supporting brands that use organic cotton and choosing organic cotton clothing for sports and casual wear, consumers can play an active role in promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.