Cotton is grown on a farm, unlike synthetic fibers made in labs derived from crude oil
A drought-resistant crop, most U.S. cotton is grown with rainfall (no irrigation).1
Because it’s a plant, cotton can biodegrade naturally, doesn’t create microplastics and can be recycled through the Blue Jeans Go Green™ program.
Cotton starts as a seed planted in the ground. On average, less than 1/10th of an ounce of pesticides are used per pound of cotton.2
In many parts of the world, cotton relies solely on natural rainfall to grow. In the U.S., about two-thirds of the cotton crop is produced without any irrigation at all. After about 5 months, cotton is ready to be harvested.
Once harvested, cotton is separated, cleaned and spun into a yarn. Synthetic fabrics, like polyester, are man-made in a lab.
The entire cotton plant can be used, not just the fluffy part. Cottonseed becomes a high-quality cow feed, or is pressed into oil for cooking, cosmetics, and soap.
Did you know by checking the label for cotton, a natural fiber, you’re making a sustainable choice?
Washing synthetic fabrics releases microplastics that can end up in waterways or aquatic food chains. Because cotton is a natural fiber, it is biodegradable in wastewater, saltwater and freshwater, and doesn’t contribute to microplastic pollution.3
Cotton’s Blue Jeans Go Green™ program recycles and converts old denim jeans into insulation and other products. Since 2006, the Blue Jeans Go Green™ program has collected about 3,500,000 pieces of denim and diverted over 1,950 tons of textile waste from landfills.
Find Out Where To Recycle
Because cotton clothing keeps its shape & washes well, it doesn’t need to be replaced as frequently as those made from other materials.