Baylor researcher to promote cotton as 'Sustainable' fiber

05 May '09

4 min read

While the trends toward organically grown cotton from overseas may resonate with environmentally concerned suppliers and consumers, Divita warns that imported organic cotton still has many negative impacts on the environment. "Even though there may be demand for organic cotton from Turkey, there has been a significant impact on the environment by the time it gets to the mill in North Carolina," she explains. "A Texas farm that uses a moderate amount of herbicides and pesticides and is sent by rail to the same mill leaves less of an environmental mark than the organic import."

As more mills and manufacturers seek to build a greener supply chain, they will be more likely to consider the domestic crop, which is good news for west Texas farmers.

Promoting cotton to the fashion industry also is important. Once known as the material for undergarments and casual wear, cotton is now being hailed for its versatility as a fiber for couture. Other innovations in technology have led to cotton fabrics that are breathable yet water repellant and t-shirts with a "dry fit" property that removes sweat away from the skin.

"Modern scientific methods have allowed west Texas cotton farmers to produce greater yields per acre without harming the environment," says Divita. "Events like Project Cotton affirm for future industry professionals the value of cotton as a fashionable and sustainable fiber as well as its important role in the domestic economy."

Baylor University

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