About Global Cotton Production

Cotton is one of the most important fibre crops in the global textile industry, but there is a lot of debate about the ethics of the clothing industry and the environmental impact of cotton production.

The Problem with Subsidies
Over two thirds of the worlds’ cotton is grown in developing countries where 100 million rural households are involved. The prices these farmers receive is driven down by subsidised cotton produced in the USA, EU and China. Subsidised cotton means developing world farmers are impoverished, struggling to provide for their families and unable to compete in the global markets.

Health and the Environment
Cotton production requires the use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and large amounts of water, leading to health problems and environmental degradation. The controversial use of child labour in cotton and clothing production means that children are all too often exposed to high levels of lethal pesticides and suffer with ensuing health problems. In Uzbekistan children as young as seven are forced to pick cotton for little or no pay, whilst in Andhra Pradesh, India 100,000 children work a 13 hour day for US50 cents.
 
The Benefits of Fairly Traded Cotton
By contrast farmers affiliated to cooperatives which sell cotton to the Fairtrade market are ensured a fair price for their crop, one that covers cost of production plus a living wage. They also receive a social premium which is democratically used for social or business development projects, e.g., to build schools, provide clean water or to buy mills for grinding seed. Many projects benefit the whole of the community. Fairtrade farmers are given advice on international markets and production methods, and are encouraged to convert to organic methods to reduce the impact on their local environment.

By buying Fairtrade Cotton, we contribute to the long term stability of the Fairtrade Cotton Farmers, and send a clear message for trade justice to the Fashion Industry.