ST/ST - Sustainability Report 2023 - EN

Choosing our materials consciously

Choosing our materials consciously

Organic cotton

From day one, we have chosen to use only organic cotton, grown from seeds that have not been genetically modified (non-GMO) and cultivated without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilisers. We initially sourced all our organic cotton from India, but since 2021, we have diversified our sourcing to include suppliers in other countries such as Turkey. Globally, only a very small portion of the cotton produced annually is organic. Cultivating organic cotton ensures that no harmful chemicals flow into the soil or into adjoining rivers, lakes or seas. This means that the water used for organic farming is not considered as lost water, as it can be used again and can safely return to the soil and other water sources. The overall positive effect on water, soil and biodiversity means that the well-being and livelihood of cotton farmers and their communities are respected and protected. We are proud to be one of the main purchasers of organic cotton in the world, showing our commitment to responsible and sustainable sourcing.*

Facts & figures

Derived from the Arabic word ‘kutan’, cotton has been grown for over 6,000 years.

Worldwide, cotton is the second most important fibre in terms of volume, just after polyester.

Only 1.4% of cotton grown is estimated to be organic.

100% of the cotton we use is GOTS certified organic cotton.

* Source: Textile Exchange’s Material Change Index (MCI) 2023

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