Cotton

Cotton has long been a foundational fiber in our lives, but the heavy environmental and social costs of conventional farming practices are now undeniable. From its vast water consumption to its reliance on chemical pesticides, cotton's legacy is complex.

The environmental impact of conventional cotton is significant. It's a notoriously thirsty crop, and traditional farming relies heavily on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers that can contaminate water sources and harm biodiversity. The social and ethical impact is also a critical concern; while providing livelihoods for millions, the industry still grapples with issues of fair labor, worker safety, and in some cases, child labor.

New sustainable methods, however, are transforming cotton production and stand in sharp contrast to conventional practices. Organic farming avoids harmful chemicals, while regenerative agriculture—the new gold standard—actively works to improve soil health, sequester carbon, and restore ecosystems. Programs like the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and In-Conversion Cotton (ICC) support farmers in this transition by promoting better agricultural practices and reduced chemical use. This shift in farming is complemented by initiatives like Fair Trade, which prioritizes the human element by guaranteeing fair wages and safe working conditions.

At Circular People, we believe in prioritizing cotton from a more responsible supply chain. We champion Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) and GOTS organic cotton for chemical-free farming that promotes soil health. We support BCI and ICC, and champion Fair Trade to ensure fair labor practices. We also advocate for recycled cotton, which reduces the demand for new fiber and closes the loop on a valuable material. Cotton is a highly circular fiber: it's exceptionally durable, fully biodegradable, and can be recycled into new yarn, preserving its value and minimizing waste.

Check out our Field Log for a deeper dive into this fiber.

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