Sunday Sustainable - Let's Talk Organic Cotton & Climate Change
Our team are all on their own sustainability journeys. This week our Production Manager, Sam shares what’s on her mind…
I found this article written by Natalie Osborne for the Australian Geographer magazine very topical for me after starting to read the IPCC’s report which left me with a feeling of helplessness for our planet. This article talks to admitting defeat and the opportunities this admission creates.
What I’m currently reading: Helena Norberg-Hodge’s Local Is Our Future
Climate Positive News
Last Sunday solar energy provided more power than coal for the first time since the National Electricity Market in Australia was established! Fossil fuels are on their way out, making way for clean, renewable energy. For more about making the switch to solar…
Compared to conventional cotton, we love organic cotton because it has…
46% reduced global warming potential.
Attributed to the lower inputs required by organic farming, particularly manufactured fertiliser, pesticides & irrigation.
91% reduced blue water consumption.
95% of the water used in organic cotton farming is green water, coming from rainwater or soil moisture, compared to conventional cotton that uses mostly irrigation, aka blue water.
62% reduced primary energy demand.
This can be attributed to the absence of manufactured fertilisers which, being derived from petrochemicals, carry a high primary energy demand.
70% less acidification potential.
Acidification is the process in which acid gases are released into the air & re-released by precipitation, which are then absorbed by plants, soils & surface water. The difference is attributed to the avoidance of fertilisers & pesticides, as well as less irrigation.
26% reduced eutrophication potential.
Eutrophication is a consequence of soil erosion & describes the enrichment of nutrients in a specific place by fertilisers, wastewater & air pollutants resulting in the disruption of fragile ecosystems. This reduction is based on evidence that organic systems employ strong soil protection methods capable of preventing 90% of the soil erosion that would otherwise cause eutrophication.
Organic cotton has the potential to bring about positive change, by guaranteeing care & protection of the land, soil can play a crucial part of the climate change solution! Through safeguarding biodiversity & the health of those people who grow the fibres we wear, these sustainable fibres have a part to play in protecting the future health of people & planet.
Check out our organic cotton clothing