Who grows organic cotton?
Over the last few decades organic cotton production has grown substantially, from just 30 farmers producing 113 tonnes of cotton fibre, to a global total of more than 31,000 tonnes. Commercial organic cotton production is now underway in some 22 countries across Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean and the Americas. In sub-Saharan Africa, Uganda, Tanzania and Mali are the main producers, and production in Benin and Senegal is increasing rapidly. Production also recently started in Togo, Zambia, Malawi and Kenya. While these figures so far only constitute a small fraction (0.15%) of world cotton production they represent important proof that contemporary cotton production can occur without the use of hazardous pesticides. It also means a more sustainable way of producing cotton for small farmers in the developing world. Organic farming can offer a step away from debts and health risks to farming families, as less harmful farming practises are introduced. The prospect of receiving organic pre
