Farm workers suffer from an abundance of toxic exposures and related health problems. In California, cotton accounts for the third highest number of pesticide poisonings behind grapes and oranges. Pesticides contaminate groundwater in at least 32 states, and half of the U.S. population relies on groundwater for its primary source of drinking water. Moreover, pesticides have been detected in the atmosphere throughout the U.S., in air, rain, fog and snow. Growing the same crops repeatedly, reduces the variety of plants, insects and animals on the land and encourages pests.
Crop rotation encourages diversity and a healthier environment.
Many others cause a range of problems including birth defects, behavioral changes, sterility, hormonal imbalances, and a variety of short-term poisonings. Despite recent improvements in soil conservation, erosion is still a serious problem around the world. Organic practices, including the addition of compost to soils and the use of cover crop rotations, can both reduce erosion and improve soil. Organic cotton feels great against your skin. It feels good to make a choice that supports so many simple nurturing effects on the land and the people we love.