 After a bath or shower, nothing beats the feel of nice fluffy towels. Those who want to live more eco-conscious lifestyles are investigating ways to make their daily habits sustainable, including the towels they use. Organic towels are an easy adjustment to make when living eco-consciously. EnviroCitizen.org has compiled this information on why organic towels are better for you and the Earth.
Organic cotton, as you probably know, is grown without the use of pesticides and insecticides. This is done using several methods that are old as well as new, but when used together, produce fine results. Farmers use natural fertilizers, such as manure and other innovative methods to replace synthetic fertilizers. This helps in preventing runoff in water that causes pollution. Beneficial insects and plants are used to control pests instead of using pesticides. Organic cotton is generally watered using rain only, using less water than regular cotton, too.
Growing organically takes more time, requires more knowledge and skill, and (at least for now) costs a bit more. The extra expense is worth it since it does not contain any hidden costs to our environment. Plus, organic cotton is known to last longer and wear better!
Organic materials are beneficial in that they decrease our exposure to chemicals and pesticides. The Environmental Protection Agency considers seven of the top 15 pesticides used on cotton in the United States as human carcinogens. With this in mind, it is also good to note that cotton is the second highest crop in the world that uses pesticide. It is written that it takes about 1/3 of a pound of pesticides and herbicides to grow enough conventional cotton for just one T-shirt! That's certainly a significant amount.
When shopping for organic cotton goods, look for the USDA organic seal. All cotton sold as organic in the United States must meet strict federal regulations concerning how the cotton is grown. This certification means that the growers deliver this promise.
The purchase of organic cotton helps to conserve water, reduces petroleum fuel use and also reduces the use of toxic chemicals. With less of these chemicals present in these materials, it is better for the Earth and better for you. Also the chemicals break down fibers in towels faster than organics. In EnviroCitizen.org's opinion, organic towels are the perfect eco-friendly, post-bath wrap.
Check out EnviroCitizen.org's selection of organic cotton towels.
|
