Sustainable, Organic Textiles Certification

Have you Cottoned On?  

Consumers are better informed than ever about the social and environmental impacts of making textiles products, and they are demanding more from brands. 

Cotton is the most abundantly produced natural textile in the world. Over 20 million tonnes of cotton is produced in over 100 countries, primarily by smallholder farmers in developing countries, and supports the livelihoods of around 350 million people. Although cotton is of immense commercial importance globally, it is a sector that faces many social, economic and environmental challenges. 

The majority of cotton production is still toxic, thirsty, and energy intensive. The rise of GM cotton is putting farmers’ livelihoods and choices at risk.

Be part of the change

We believe that there is an imperative for cotton to be produced and used more sustainably; not only to reduce its significant burden on the environment, but also as a pathway to lift millions of people out of poverty

Soil Association Certification operates as the enabler of change for the Soil Association charity, delivering a high integrity based certification. We support the journey towards a sustainable and environmentally engaged cotton market, and in particular we deliver both the leading Organic standards the Organic Content Standard from Textile Exchange and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).  We see Organic as the gold standard of sustainable cotton production. We are fully committed to the ongoing development, implementation, and rigorous verification of these globally impacting standards.

Organic is taking the lead in addressing consumer concerns by offering verified supply chains, as well as kinder and cleaner textiles. When consumers buy certified products they have the reassurance their money is going back down the supply chain and making a difference to farmers.

Join a growing market 

The UK organic market is evolving from food into lifestyle. Consumer interest in ethically and sustainably sourced materials is growing - as is the organic textiles market which has massive potential. This year, our 67 Soil Association Certification licensees increased sales by 30% to £28 million. Find out more about the growing market for organic textiles in the UK.

• Research & Reports

  As an organisation, we have been campaigning for years to drive change in the fashion and textiles industry. Download our research papers and briefing to learn more about how organic cotton can help change the world.

  Download our reports