Earth Month | Myths or Facts -

Sustainable. Organic. All natural. These are all terms that are frequently tossed around, even more so now. But do you really know what that means? How does this affect your lifestyle or purchasing decisions?
We’re here to bust some of the biggest misconceptions.

1) MYTH # 1 Natural means Organic

This is false. As consumers we frequently rely on labels and packaging when shopping and many brands mislead customers with words like ‘natural’ causing many customers to equate this with organic. But there’s a huge difference with ‘certified organic’ products and ‘natural’ products. The term ‘natural’ is not regulated in the US, meaning many manufacturers can improperly label heavily processed items with it. ‘Organic’ on the other hand is heavily regulated, meaning producers follow strict certification inspections that you can trust. Next time you shop, make sure you seek out organic certifications!

2) MYTH # 2 Bamboo is Sustainable

Sometimes. Not all bamboo is created equal. Bamboo is an extremely renewable resource and is often the first option sought after, but it isn’t always the most sustainable option. When raw and unmanipulated, bamboo in kitchenware and wood is great! However, to turn bamboo into a soft fabric it undergoes high chemical processing which often creates carbon disulfide – toxic to human reproductive systems. This doesn’t just mean saying no to fabrics made from bamboo, it also means saying no to fabrics like bamboo based rayon and viscose. Learn more about Getting Bamboozled here.

3) MYTH #3 Organic Cotton is Better for the Environment

True. Conventional cotton makes up 2.5% of the worlds agriculture but soaks up 16-25% of the pesticides produced. The life cycle analysis of organic cotton uses 62% less energy per yield. Organic farming also contributes to improving climate change by sequestering carbon in the ground. Organic cotton uses 91% less water consumption, 46% less global warming emissions and is free from toxic chemicals and GMO seeds. In a single year, organic farming saved over 200 billion litres of water, 90 million kg of carbon dioxide and 280 million KW of energy! Choosing organic when you can makes a world of difference.

4) MYTH #4 Sustainability means expensive

False. While this can be true, it is only in short term circumstances. While there are organic brands that charge premium costs, this isn’t exclusive to just organic products. The cost of quality made organic clothing will last longer than fast fashion brands made for mass consumption. The true cost of sustainable fashion means treating people and animals fairly in the supply chain and reducing environmental impact that will outlast cheap cotton and underpaid labor.

5) MYTH #5 Organic means granola

False. Many people believe that organic clothing means a hemp tee in a hundred shades of beige. Not the case! We’re happy to share that more organic and sustainable brands are emerging, giving consumers so many more options for unique clothing, home goods, accessories, shoes, activewear and so much more.