Organic products support good health. We know buying organic food is deemed to be a health choice, but what about other organic products? Everything from cleaning products to clothing - organic is more than just food.
The impact of consumer culture has reached crisis point for our planet, as it struggles to keep up with the demands of our growing population. Thousands of tonnes of waste material are dumped into our oceans and landfills every year and working conditions in developing countries continue to suffer under the expectation of cheap, fast labour.
When it comes to our clothing and textiles, each year, many synthetic pesticides are used in non-organic production. These pesticides make their way into the soil and water systems, threatening soil health, clean water supplies, and biodiversity. When you choose organic, you help to reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides, and in turn, protect your health and the health of the planet.
Here are some very important reasons to buy organic:
Protect the planet and soils - Over 3,000 tons of pesticides, including insecticides herbicides and fungicides are used in New Zealand every year. These pesticides make their way into the soil and water systems, threatening soil health, clean water supplies, and biodiversity.
Protect the oceans from microfiber pollution - The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources estimates that around 1.7 million tons of microfibers enter the ocean each year, threatening marine species and sensitive coral reef ecosystems.
Reduce global warming and save energy - Organic farming is more energy efficient than conventional farming, so its carbon footprint is significantly lower than methods used in intensive agriculture. Carbon sequestration can also help tackle global warming, because CO2 that would otherwise end up in the atmosphere is stored in the ground.
Sustainability and workers’ rights - Choose clothes made from sustainable material, like organic cotton, hemp or bamboo, rather than cheaper synthetic fabrics. They’re manufactured to a much higher standard of sustainability and workers’ rights – plus they’re biodegradable, so their fibres won’t harm the planet when they come off in the wash. Buying products made of organic material promotes safer work conditions, by eliminating workers' exposure to dangerous chemicals.