Cotonea Organic Cotton

Although originally perennial, the cotton plant was cultivated into an annual plant for reasons of profitability. When their capsules burst open after ripening, - depending on the type, climate, weather and soil conditions - bright white, cream coloured, or grey fibres unfold into fluffy balls. Originally cotton was only cultivated in the tropics and subtropics where there is sufficient rainfall all year round. However, meeting rising demands, cotton cultivation expanded into dryer habitats – where large-scale irrigation is necessary.

Cotton requires large amounts of water only at the begin of its growth season. Later it is resistant to drought, undemanding and modest. It has outstanding properties, which in this combination is unusual and benefits us humans greatly. It should be no surprise then that cotton has made its victorious way around the world, and that our fascination for this natural raw material stems from these properties.

It can absorb up to 65 percent of its own weight in moisture, it is skin-friendly and breathable, has a very low allergic potential, is durable and tear-resistant. Neither hot water nor lye can damage it, it is easy to clean and long-lasting even when used heavily and often. Appropriate treatment produces a wonderfully subtle, silky smooth fabric out of cotton.

Cotton is a jack of all trades, with results which to date you cannot produce synthetically. It is the most widespread fibre in the world, as it fulfils the highest demands of comfort, hygiene and durability. In addition, cotton is completely biodegradable.

Sustainable & Ecological Cultivation

In light of further tightening of certification guidelines by GOTS and EU Organic, the economic situation for organic cotton farmers – particularly smallholders – has, in some cases, deteriorated dramatically worldwide. The entire organic cotton market, and therefore Cotonea too, is feeling the effects. As a result, our long-standing partner cooperatives in both Kyrgyzstan and Uganda have decided to withdraw from GOTS due to the excessive costs of additional certification. We deeply regret this development. Nevertheless, we understand their decision. Above all, we welcome the fact that our existing partners remain committed to organic farming, as the positive effects of organic farming are realised even without GOTS certification. Here at Cotonea, we are currently assessing how to deal with this changed situation in line with our corporate values. At the same time, we are in discussions with new, certified suppliers. We will keep you informed of further developments.
We still have sufficient stocks of raw materials and semi-finished products made from previously certified cotton. Newly sourced alternatives will be incorporated into fabric production first. In this way, our finished goods will continue to be made from organic cotton from Kyrgyzstan and Uganda for around two years. Only after that will a different type of organic cotton become visible in the end product.
You can find more background information here.

Organic cotton is the only option for Cotonea products! That is why we have helped set up cultivation projects in regions with sufficient rainfall, and when selecting new cultivation projects, we ensure that no genetically modified seeds, artificial fertilisers or pesticides are used there. Our local partners are familiar with many natural methods for keeping major insect infestations ‘at bay’. An independent certification body monitors compliance with the organic standards.

The cultivation of organic cotton stands for organic crop protection and natural fertilisers, and not for the use of harmful pesticides and artificial fertilisers. As no pure mono cultures are grown in organic farming, the soil is conserved and therefore protected from leaching. Due to crop rotation with other seeds, the soil’s precious fertility is guaranteed and even improved. Typical rotation crops for cotton plants include sesame and sunflowers, as well as pulses, chilli, manioc, yellow carrots and many more.

A great emphasis is put on sustainability in organic crop cultivation. Therefore, our earth’s valuable resources, for example water, are used sensibly. The areas of Cotonea’s cultivation projects have sufficient rain and groundwater at their disposal. The organic cotton plants are provided with sufficient water and artificial irrigation is not necessary. Contrary to conventional cultivation, Cotonea organic cotton is not produced using gene manipulated species. As a mark of respect to nature, only natural seeds are used. In doing so, many organic farmers have a higher yield per hectare than conventional farmers.

We encountered both projects through personal contacts and after long periods of research. With both projects we have partners who believe in the future of ecological agriculture. These people are indispensable for the success and the credibility of a project, for they convince farmers about the benefits of ecological and the disadvantages of conventional agriculture. And they clarify the risks of genetically modified seeds.

Consistent information, systematic, continual training as well as calculable income convince farmers, that it is worth “being a part of the projects”. With the GADC und the initiator, Bruce Robertson, who continues to develop the project with great personal involvement, we have reliable partners in Uganda.

People want to build long-lasting, trusting relationships. They are the basis for stability. They contribute that a region and the people who live there can develop. Stability is the basis of a good life in safety.