Many people turn to organic produce to avoid ingesting harmful pesticides, but fewer consumers consider the source of their clothing, and how chemicals used in fabric production can impact health. Organic clothing manufacturers rely on sustainable agricultural and manufacturing processes to create clothes made from organic cotton, flax, hemp and other natural materials. By purchasing these clothes, you can protect your family's health and reduce your short- and long-term impact on the environment.
Reduced Air and Water Pollution
The Organic Trade Association calls cotton the world's dirtiest crop. Many of the world's most dangerous pesticides and other chemicals are used to produce cotton. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, chronic exposure to aldicarb can cause neurological effects, while short-term exposure is linked to nausea and diarrhea. Cotton production accounts for about 83 percent of world aldicarb use according to the EPA.
Once these chemicals are applied to the cotton, they may seep into underground aquifers or wash into local water when it rains. From there, the chemicals become part of drinking water supplies, and can impact wildlife and plant species. As water evaporates, these chemicals also pollute the air and contribute to poor air quality.
Most organic clothing producers rely on healthy fabrics grown without the use of chemical pesticides. Choosing these products helps increase air and water quality, which protects humans, wildlife and plants.
Minimized Climate Change
Many farmers rely on nitrogen-based fertilizers to improve crop yield and growth rates. According to the EPA, nitrous oxide from agricultural production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gases and global warming.
According to the Organic Trade Association, many organic fabric producers rely on sustainable agricultural techniques rather than nitrogen and other chemical fertilizers. With crop rotation and other all-natural processes, organic farmers produce fibers that minimize greenhouse gas emissions.
Improved Health
The majority of synthetic fabrics, including polyester and nylon, consist of fibers derived from petroleum. Like all petroleum-based products, clothing made from these fibers releases toxic fumes through a process known as off-gassing. According to the Environmental Health Association of Nova Scotia, these fumes contribute to allergies, chemical sensitivities, cancers and other illnesses, particularly in young children. Organic fabrics do not contain petroleum, and thus, do not release these dangerous fumes.
Organic clothing also keeps chemical fabric softeners and coatings used during manufacturing away from your skin. According to the Organic Trade Association, organic clothing producers are less likely to use these chemicals than traditional manufacturers.
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