‘Going organic’ in textiles seems to be all the rage with most retailers in Europe and some from the US getting very bullish on organic textiles. With global warming and environmental damages hogging the headlines, organic merchandise is catching the fancy of the new-age consumer. The demand for organic cotton fibre is expected to grow from 40,000 mt in 2006 to 1,00,000 mt in 2008. Estimated global retail sales of organic textiles are likely to show a 116% growth rate in the short term. India seems to have an advantage, the country being considered as one of the two largest organic cotton-producing countries (Turkey is the other). Apparel companies are developing programmes that either use 100% organically grown cotton, or blend small percentages of organic cotton with conventional cotton in their products. There are a number of companies driving the expanded use of domestic and international organic cotton. 

About 25% of the world's pesticides and fertilisers are used for cotton, which uses only 3% of the world's farmland. Over 750 gm of toxic chemicals are used to grow cotton enough for one bed linen set and about 500 gm used for cotton enough for one T-shirt. And most chemicals used in cotton farming were originally developed for warfare. As a result of consumer interest, organic cotton fibre is used in everything from personal care items (sanitary products, make-up removal pads, cotton puffs and ear swabs), to home furnishings (towels, bathrobes, sheets, blankets, bedding), children's products (toys, diapers), clothes of all kinds and styles (whether for lounging, sports or the workplace), and even stationery and note cards. In addition, organic cottonseed is used for animal feed, and organic cottonseed oil is used in a variety of food products, including cookies and chips. Participants in a survey predicted that US sales of organic fibre would grow an average of 15.5% each year for 2004 through 2008. Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilisers, and build biologically diverse agriculture. 

Do we need any further piece of evidence to kick-start a mini-revolution in organic textiles?