In the world of apparel, sustainability has become a hot topic. As the media continues to focus on this aspect of the apparel industry, consumers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly choices. As a result, the garment industry is reevaluating its practices. Cotton, an ancient and versatile fabric, plays a pivotal role in the creation of our premium t-shirts and apparel in general. In this article, we'll look into sustainable practices in cotton farming, discuss a little about how it compares to other materials like polyester and uncover the inherently sustainable qualities that make cotton a popular choice.
Cotton, a natural fiber derived from the cotton plant's fluffy seed fibers, has a long history in the textile industry. Cotton dated to be about 7000 years old was found in Mexico and we know Egyptians were wearing cotton cloth 5000 years ago. Cotton today is grown much differently than it was thousands of years ago and farmers are growing their cotton much more efficiently, sustainably and producing higher yields than ever before. To meet the growing demand for sustainable fashion, cotton producers are continually adopting more environmentally friendly practices.
Organic Farming: Probably the most recognizable sustainable practice used in agriculture today is organic farming. This method eliminates the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, promoting healthier soil and reducing the harm that chemical pesticides or fertilizers may have on ecosystems. This is the primary benefit of organic cotton and why it is sometimes favored over other cotton choices. It is not necessarily higher quality, softer or more durable than other cottons. The opposite is usually true. Also, organic cotton is less efficient to produce and can require more land, water, energy and can result in lower yields. This is one reason why less than 1% of all cotton grown is organic cotton. It’s great that some farmers are using this method to reduce their impact on our environment but it is a good example of how there is rarely just one solution to a problem.
Water Demands: Another concern with cotton cultivation is that it has a reputation for its water-intensive nature. However, in the U.S., 64% of cotton produced requires no irrigation, relying solely on rainwater, 31% receives supplemental irrigation and 5% is fully irrigated. Sustainable and modern cotton farming makes use of responsible water management practices such as rain-fed irrigation and the implementation of efficient irrigation systems. This helps mitigate the environmental impact of water consumption associated with cotton production and these methods are continually improving.
Soil Health: To maintain soil health and reduce the risk of pests, sustainable cotton farmers often practice crop rotation, precision fertilization and conservation tillage. Crop rotations enhance soil fertility and reduce the need for chemical interventions. Cover crops can reduce soil erosion, enhance microbial activity, improve land productivity, increase soil organic matter and water use efficiency. Precision fertilization is essentially using several methods to determine the nutrient needs of a crop in specific areas and applying the precise amount of fertilizer to that area. The benefits of this farming method are minimized cost of materials and resources, like water, seeds and fuel. Reducing the number of pesticides and lowering agriculture’s dependence on weather conditions. Conservation tillage aims to reduce the frequency at which soil is tilled. This has many benefits, some of which are improved soil health, reduced runoff, and limiting the extent of erosion. Thanks to practices such as these cotton’s land use has declined 30% since 1980 and in the U.S., cotton yields have doubled over the past three decades even as the space used for planting has declined.
I think using multiple methods like these are a wonderful way to improve an industry and at the same time make it more sustainable as opposed to completely upending any given industry for the sake of environmentalism. Thoughtful, intelligent ideas and decisions can have a huge impact over time. Isn’t that what sustainability is really about? There will never be a shortage of politicians willing to sacrifice an entire industry looking for meaningless talking points while at the same time other individuals trying to make money off the newest technology or “innovation” that no one needs. So long as we continue to respect proven methods while trying to improve them and appreciate the people who are actually doing the work, we can all benefit.
Cotton compared to other materials: While cotton has its sustainable merits, there are chemicals used to produce cotton fabric such as ammonia, flame retardants, petroleum scours and softeners. These can vary depending on the cotton that’s being produced and where it is made. So, it's essential to consider how it stacks up against other materials commonly used in t-shirt manufacturing. Polyester and polyester blends are quite popular for use in t-shirts. It can be durable and have moisture wicking properties which is why it is frequently used for workout gear. However, it is derived from petrochemicals and has a higher carbon footprint than natural fibers. Modal is a type of rayon made from beech tree pulp. While it can have a soft feel and breathability, the production process involves soaking it in chemicals like sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfate that can be harmful to the environment. I was surprised to learn it is also more expensive than cotton. Most bamboo-based fabrics are made in similar fashion to modal so they also use chemicals which can be harmful to the environment. If a bamboo fabric is made using a closed loop production process or mechanical production process rather than the viscose method it is far more sustainable or environmentally friendly. But these fabrics are harder to find. All these fabrics have their advantages and uses so if sustainability is important to you, there is a lot to consider.
Inherently Sustainable: Another great thing about cotton, beyond specific farming practices, is that cotton possesses inherently sustainable qualities that contribute to its popularity in the apparel industry. Unlike synthetic fibers such as polyester, cotton is biodegradable. When disposed of, cotton garments break down naturally, minimizing environmental impact and reducing the burden on landfills. Cotton is a renewable resource, as it comes from the cotton plant, which can be replanted season after season. This renewability contributes to a more sustainable supply chain compared to non-renewable resources like fossil fuels used in the production of synthetic fibers. Cotton is very durable. The longevity of cotton garments adds to their sustainability. High-quality cotton fabrics, like Pima cotton and Pima cotton blends, can withstand the test of time, reducing the frequency of replacements and minimizing the overall environmental impact.
Sustainable practices in cotton farming, combined with the inherently eco-friendly qualities of cotton, make it a standout choice for premium apparel. One more point I would like to add is when you spend money on a higher quality product, that product will last you longer than a lower quality product and will save you money over time and reduce waste. Quality over quantity. Choosing high quality premium t-shirts made from sustainable cotton is not just a fashion statement but a conscious decision to support eco-friendly practices in the garment industry. If quality and durability interests you then check out our high-quality, durable and yet very comfortable premium cotton t-shirts. You wont be disappointed.
