Organic cotton is grown and harvested using methods that have a low impact on the environment. Organic farmers build, replenish, and maintain healthy soil, which is the foundation of the food chain. In addition, organic cotton farmers do not use toxic chemicals, synthetic fertilizers, or GMO seeds.
Organic cotton is improving the health of farmers by preventing and reducing pesticide poisoning of farmers and their families. Aerial spraying of pesticides can drift through the air onto farm workers, as well as neighboring wildlife and communities.
According to the Organic Trade Association, 99% of cotton farmers are located in the developing world, and so they are the most affected by the problems brought on by traditional farming methods. In India, one of every ten pesticide applications result in three or more reported health symptoms related to pesticide exposure.