The word “organic” gets thrown around a lot these days in the marketing world, but what does it really mean? To us, it means using sustainable practices to make clothing that is not only comfortable and beautiful, but also has the least impact on the planet.
Beckons is whole-heartedly committed to minimizing our environmental footprint.
- We promote the efforts of organic growers
- We manufacture garments domestically (Denver, CO)
- We recycle our shipping boxes and avoid using poly bags whenever possible
- We embrace the triple bottom-line philosophy, caring as much about our impact on the world and it's people, as we do about profit
It is our promise to our customers to do everything we can to live a harmonious existence, but there is no reason you can't be comfortable while doing it! Here are some of the straight-up facts about the growing and use of organic cotton to help educate you about what you are really buying and the impact your purchase decisions make on the planet.
- Organic cotton feels softer. Untainted by chemicals, the fibers of organic cotton are longer, softer, and less brittle, making them more durable and comfortable to wear.
- Organic farms respect our water resources. Organic cotton requires less water and the treatment process is chemical-free, so there is no nitrogen leaching, and water resources are preserved.
- Organic farmers build healthy soil. The primary focus of organic farming is using practices that build healthy soils. Organic farming relies on compost and manure for fertilizer, no man-made chemicals.
- Organic farmers work in harmony with nature. Organic agriculture respects the balance demanded of a healthy ecosystem. Wildlife is encouraged by including forage crops in rotation and by retaining fence rows, wetlands, and other natural areas.
- Organic products meet stringent standards. Organic certification is the public’s assurance that products have been grown and handled according to strict procedures without persistent toxic chemical inputs.
- Organic producers are leaders in innovative research. Organic farmers lead the way, largely at their own expense, with innovative on-farm research aimed at reducing pesticide use and minimizing agriculture’s impact on the environment.
- Organic farming promotes rural community health. Organic agriculture offers an alternative market where sellers can command fair prices for crops. Organic cotton is grown in more than 22 countries and positively affects the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of farmers and their families.
- Organic production reduces health risks. The EPA considers seven of the top 15 pesticides used on cotton as possible, likely, probable, or known human carcinogens. Organic agriculture helps prevent any more of these chemicals from getting into our air, earth and water.
- Organic products are becoming more abundant. As more organic products are becoming accessible to the mainstream consumer, the tide is shifting to organic products as everyday purchases. In time, this will make prices more competitive and our earth safer and healthier.
The organic cotton Beckons uses in creating their sustainable yoga clothing is sourced from Texas (US), India, Turkey and China. The growing fields and processing are certified by Control Union Certifications (formerly SKAL International). The cotton processing is further certified by Control IMO, the Institute for Marketecologie. Using these verification companies ensures our fabrics meet USDA and Organic Trade Association guidelines, and that we are working in alignment with our values.