Simply put, organic agriculture is farming without the use of synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, insecticides and fertilizers and, previous to the last few decades, it was the only form of agriculture practiced on the planet.

Organic agriculture protects the health of people and the environment by reducing the overall exposure to toxic chemicals that eventually end up in the ground, air, water and food supply, and that are associated with negative environmental and health consequences.

APPAREL & TEXTILES

Worldwide, the growing, harvesting and processing of conventional cotton takes an enormous toll on the air, water and soil as well as the health of people working in and living near the cotton fields. On the other hand, producers of organic cotton and other textiles do not use any pesticides, herbicides or other chemicals on their crops; no chemicals, bleaches, disinfectants or toxic dyes are applied to the fabrics during processing.   By choosing chemical-free clothing, sheets, towels and other household necessities that come into close contact with our skin, we protect our own health and that of the planet.   

Designers and consumers are increasingly seeking out organic cotton and other raw materials not only for their intrinsic social and environmental value but also their higher quality and luxurious feel. Organic wool, bamboo and even soy fiber present other viable, organic alternatives to the fashionable ethical consumer.  

BODY CARE

By now we've all heard the classic adage, if you wouldn't put it in your mouth, don't put it on your skin.   As the body's largest organ, our skin absorbs up to 60% of ingredients in whatever creams, shampoos and soaps we put on it.   And what, exactly, do many of those creams, soaps and shampoos contain? A study by the Environmental Working Group found that 80% of all cosmetic products may be contaminated with one or more carcinogenic impurities. Thus, it is particularly important to choose organic body care products that do not contain petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens and other known toxic chemicals commonly used in conventional products.

FOOD

Organic food production utilizes a system of farming that maintains and replenishes a balanced, quality soil without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers. Furthermore, organic foods cannot be produced with the use of antibiotics, synthetic hormones, genetic engineering and other excluded practices, sewage sludge, or irradiation. Cloning animals or using their products is also prohibited.