Organic growers use non-toxic means of controlling cotton pests. In U.S. cotton production, for example, the leading insecticides include aldicarb, one of the most acutely toxic pesticides registered in the U.S., and acephate, a possible human carcinogen. Because of differences in eating habits and physiology, children are at greater risk for pesticide-related health problems than adults.
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.