Fairtrade is an alternative system of world trade that makes sure farmers and workers are given a fair and guaranteed price for what they grow and the work they do. Fairtrade also ensures that there is no forced or child labour, working conditions are safe and healthy and that both workers and the environment are treated with respect.
Fairtrade organic cotton farming leads to higher revenues for farmers, making agriculture a viable way of earning a living. Conventional cotton farmers in poorer areas can struggle as the cost of fertilisers, pesticides, and possibly GM seeds, can lead to a spiral of rising costs, rising debts, and more pressure to increase yields. This pressure is multiplied as world cotton prices fall due in part to the huge subsidies received by American and European farmers.
Organic cotton farmers encourage natural pest predators like birds, bees and insects. Crop rotation and crop mixing maintains soil quality. Over time yields and cotton quality increase, and a local biologically diverse eco-system is established.
Organic cotton farmers do not use artificial pesticides or herbicides for pest control. Some of the chemicals used in conventional cotton growing are extremely toxic according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), and can lead to water pollution, reduced soil fertility, and severe health problems. Some chemical residues remain in the cotton even after it has been made into clothing, possibly causing skin irritations to the wearer.