Climbing clothes : Prana now uses only 100% organic cotton
This summer prAna presents new and stunning styles but also a milestone in their quest for sustainabillity: The Spring/Summer collection 2018 is now 100% organic cotton! The californian brand has been working hard on their sustainable-clothing-movement and its goal to constantly diminish the use of controversial, conventional cotton. As one of the first established brands, their cotton share is now 100% organic.
Cotton is not only the most widely-grown crop in the world but also one of the most chemical-intensive. Due to usage of pesticides, insecticides and genetically modified seeds, the cultivation of conventional cotton is at the expense of environment and human health. Hence, alternative measures will need to be considered. For this very reason, prAna has gradually reduced the use of generically sourced cotton and made the Summer collection for 2018 with 100% organic cotton!
Organic Cotton – No chemicals needed
Conventionally grown cotton consumes approximately 24% of the insecticides and more than 10% of the pesticides used on this planet. Organic production systems on the other hand, renounces the usage of toxic and persistent pesticides, insecticides and fertilizer or genetically modified cotton and lead to a biologically divers and healthy agriculture. Organic cotton reduces the acidification, replenishes soil fertility, leads to biodiversity, humic land and a balanced soil system.
Saving water
The importance of water use in agriculture is evident but also improvable. It takes more than 20.000 liters of water to produce one kilogram of conventional cotton. Organic cotton does not grow magically without water, but it needs less irrigation. Why so?
Organic soil management leads to better soil structure and to better infiltration of water. Increasing soil organic matter also improves water retention in the soil and thus allows the crop to better sustain dry periods. The agriculture of organic cotton can reduce the water consumption for irrigation by 91%. The conversion to organic agriculture helps to increase the water-use efficiency in cotton cultivation.
Safe work & better livelihoods
Growing organic cotton supports safety and independence of farmers and their families. Their health is no longer exposed to toxic chemicals in fields, food and the water supply. In organic cotton systems, the diversity of crops can also diversify their income and it helps to insure them against crop failure, climate variability, price volatility and changes in market demand. In addition to that, farmers can pass on recurring and risky investments in expensive chemicals and GMO seeds.
Conscious consumption
Dressing in organic cotton means you have a positive impact on soil fertility, water saving and farmers lives. But with organic cotton there are more benefits than good conscience and smaller ecological footprint: Organic cotton is smoother than regular cotton and especially recommended for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
100% organic – 100% now
Over 36 of the world’s most renowned textile and clothing companies have signed up the „Sustainable Cotton Communiqué“. And thereby pledged to use 100% sustainable cotton by 2025. PrAna has been working towards 100% organic cotton since it’s early beginnings. This year the Californian brand, for climbing and yoga, achieves the long-time goal. To be 100% organic cotton in 2018 already shows once again, that prAna is an industry leader in sustainability. Russ Hopcus, prAna president, declares:
“It’s been a long journey to reach 100% organic cotton. Kudos to all the prAna employees & global supply chain partners who put in countless hours. We couldn’t be more ecstatic about this sustainability milestone!”
