Organic-Fiber Conference Set for Monterey, Calif.
Berkeley, Calif.–based Organic Exchange is hosting its Fifth Annual Conference and Marketplace on organic fibers and sustainability Oct. 31–Nov. 2 at the Asilomar Conference Grounds in Monterey, Calif.
The event will include numerous panel discussions and workshops as well as tours of organic farms and/or several San Francisco–based eco-friendly retailers. Sponsors include Patagonia, Nike Inc., Nordstrom, Central Textiles (HK) Ltd., the Texas Organic Cotton Market Cooperative, Eileen Fisher and others.
According to a recent report conducted by Organic Exchange, organic cotton production has skyrocketed 53 percent over the past year. About 57,931 metric tons, or 265,517 bales, were produced in 24 countries on all arable continents. Organic production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers.
“The increase in organic cotton production around the world is a direct result of the apparel, home-product and personal-care industry’s interest in providing products grown in the most sustainable manner possible,” said Executive Director LaRhea Pepper. “Organic Exchange believes that demand for organic cotton fiber will remain high, which means more and more farmers can convert to organic production to help manufacturers meet the demand.”
Organic cotton production is projected to increase from 25 percent to 55 percent in 2007–2008, according to the Organic Exchange. Given the popularity of organic cotton use in consumer products, ending stocks of organic cotton are estimated to be only approximately 9,046 metric tons, or 41,461 bales. Ending stocks will likely remain at or lower than current levels in all three scenarios, given the tight market.
The largest customers within the U.S. apparel industry are activewear brands, including Nike and Patgonia, and retailer Wal-Mart Stores, according to a 2006 Organic Exchange report.
The data were collected through July 2007 from organic cotton farming projects and other industry sources (certifiers, promotion bodies, academics, companies, government officials and individual experts). The report was made possible with the support of ICCO (a Netherlands-based inter-religion organization for co-development), the Martin-Fabert Foundation and Organic Exchange member sponsors.
For more information, visit www.organicexchange.org.—Robert McAllister
