What is organic?

The term organic describes the products of agriculture that use no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Organic methods consider the whole eco system and use natural techniques to assist plant growth, repel pests and protect and encourage wildlife habitats. “Working with, not against,” nature is the principle behind organic farming. Grown without pesticides and spun without chemicals, organic farmers rely on organic fertilizers, manual crop rotation and integrated pest management. Fields are naturally fertilized, pest-eating insects are used to naturally control crop damage, and weeds are removed with hoes and tractors, as well as by hand. Farms earn the organic label by using soil that has been free of synthetic pesticides for at least three consecutive years.

What is Organic Cotton?

Organic cotton is a clean, sustainable alternative to conventional cotton. No toxic chemicals are used in processing and manufacturing of organic cotton products.

It is produced by farms where no synthetic chemical pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers have been used for at least three years.

Instead of using agricultural pesticides, beneficial organisms such as parasites and natural enemies (such as ladybirds) are used for insect management.

What does “Organic Certification” mean?

“Organic Certification” means that a product has been farmed in accordance with the strict and uniform requirements that have been verified by an independent body. Some of these bodies include Control Union (formerly known as SKAL), ECOCERT, OCIA- Organic Crop Improvement Association and IMO.

Certification includes inspections in farm fields as well as the production process facilities, recording of detailed data and periodic testing of soils and water in order to guarantee that producers and handlers are fulfilling the necessary requirements.

What is Fair Trade?

Fair trade is a trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade.

It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalized producers and workers.

From the International Federation for Alternative Trade. (IFAT)

Why is it better for the environment to buy organic?

Conventional agricultural methods can cause environmental damage through the introduction of man made chemicals which contaminate our water supplies.

The elimination of polluting chemicals and dyes by organic farmers work to prevent contamination, help build up our soils and protect and conserve water supplies.