With this article we want to explain in the simplest and most concrete way possible the main differences, the merits and the qualities of a t-shirt made of organic cotton.

1- ORGANIC AGRICULTURE

The first main difference lies precisely in the cultivation of cotton. To be defined Organic, cotton must be grown following the strict standards and rules of organic farming, just like food products. The first essential element is the exclusion of pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides and any chemical substance usually used to speed up the cultivation and harvesting process. These substances not only heavily pollute the soil, but literally cause it to die after a few years of intensive use. As far as organic cotton is concerned, the defoliation must take place in a natural way, taking all the necessary time that the plant requires.

2- LESS USE OF WATER

According to estimates calculated by the Soil Association, 243 liters of water are needed to make an organic cotton t-shirt, compared to 2700 liters required to produce a normal cotton t-shirt. A huge difference in terms of quantity, which leads us to reflect on how much water we could save if each of us bought only organic cotton t-shirts.

3- LESS GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION

Closely connected to the discourse of organic farming, we have greenhouse gas emissions, which in the case of organic cotton are significantly lower for two main reasons. The first concerns, according to the Textile Exchange, the release of Nitrous Oxide due precisely to the use of chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers, which pollute the soil and air; not being used in the cultivation of the organic version, the soil free from these substances is able to naturally absorb the carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere, generating about 46% less CO2 emissions. The second reason relates to the present much lower production of organic cotton in quantitative terms. Choosing this fiber can still be considered a niche choice today, as the sustainable brands that use it usually aim for a Slow Fashion model, producing fewer items of clothing and generating fewer emissions.

4- LOW ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT DYES

Another element not to be underestimated are the dyes used to color the garments. In the production of a normal cotton t-shirt, dyes full of heavy metals and sulfur are usually used, which not only contribute to environmental pollution, but come into direct contact with our skin, with the possibility of causing damage to our skin. health. A certified organic cotton t-shirt is offered for sale after using often natural dyes, specifically designed to have less environmental impact and not cause problems in contact with the skin.

5- SUPERIOR QUALITY

The final result leads to the creation of a superior quality t-shirt. Organic cotton always remains fresh and breathable, favoring the recycling of air between the skin and the fabric. It is able to guarantee a greater thermoregulation function, absorbing or releasing heat depending on the body temperature. The natural raw material guarantees resistance after washing, and an ability to resist aging due to multiple uses.

We specify that in order to ascertain the real realization of an Organic Cotton T-shirt it is good that this is equipped with a Textile Certification. In a future article we will talk specifically about textile certifications and their importance, as they not only attest to the real essence of Organic Cotton and other eco-sustainable materials, but also take care of verifying the Social and Ethical part of the production chains. . Very important social factor to prevent the exploitation of labor.

Thank you for reading the article and look forward to seeing you for the next weekly Shenty Blog appointment.