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Oganic Wool Facts
What is "organic" fiber?
Agricultural fibers such as cotton, wool, hemp, and flax are used to make huge variety of products. "Organic" refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed, representing a commitment to agricultural systems that strive for balance with nature in which the methods and materials used are of minimal environmental impact. Organic agriculture replenishes and maintains soil fertility, prohibits the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers, and builds biologically diverse, natural systems.
What is "certified organic" fiber?
When a grower or processor is "certified organic," an independent government or private organization verifies that the company meets or exceeds defined standards and practices. Certified organic farms and processing facilitates are inspected annually and must maintain extensive records detailing their production methods.
What standards are in place for the processing of organic fiber and organic fiber products?
Several international certification organizations in Europe have established fiber processing standards. The United States, however, does not. The Organic Fiber Council (OFC) is currently developing organic fiber processing standards. Once they are approved by the Organic Trade Association's (OTA) Board of Directors, they will be added to American Organic Standards. (See the OTA web site at www.ota.com). Such standards will likely become the basis for future national laws. Once standards have been adopted by certifying agencies, mills and others will be able to gain certification.
What is the status of the organic fiber market?
Although methodologies for tracking retail sales growth of organic fiber products do not yet exist, there are indicators of strong growth. These included an increasing number of companies using organic fibers, as well as the growing number of companies joining OTA's Fiber Council. OFC membership increased 55% between March 1999 and March 2000. Increased interest in organic fiber and organic fiber products is likely to continue, just as interest in organic food has steadily grown in the last 15 years.
What is fueling the growth?
Responding to increasing consumer concerns about health and environment, businesses are now seeking ways to make products in the most environmentally sensitive way. Companies can meet this goal either by making products from 100% organic fiber or by blending a small percent of organically grown fibers with conventional fibers. In either case, purchase of organic fiber expands organic agricultural production.
What kinds of products are made using organic fiber?
Organic fiber is used in a wide range of products including personal care products (sanitary products, make-up removal pads, cotton puffs and ear swabs), apparel (casual wear, sports clothes, business attire, and more, for men, women and children), home furnishings (mattresses, bedding, bath items, table linens and accessories), toys, diapers and even stationery and note cards. Information taken from the OTA' s Organic Fiber Directory, Second Edition |
