PIMA COTTON
On average, our Pima Cotton t-shirt emits 11.4kg CO2e.
In other words, 34% lower emissions than the conventional equivalent.
Pima Cotton originates from Peru, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years, deeply intertwined with the traditions and culture of indigenous communities. This drought-tolerant fiber requires 50% less water than other cotton varieties, making it a resource-efficient option. By incorporating Peruvian Pima Cotton into our materials, we help preserve a rich heritage while supporting local economies, providing vital income to indigenous farmers, and promoting sustainable practices.
Agro Pima Peru, which supplies 28% of our raw materials, exemplifies exceptional sustainability and ethical standards. Operating under the Business for Nature standard, the farm has documented over 180 species on its land, demonstrating its commitment to biodiversity. Agro Pima maintains transparency with workers by prominently displaying its labor policies, best practices, and sustainability goals. The farm also enforces policies to minimize environmental impact, such as reducing plastic waste and managing water usage responsibly.
Agro Pima employs innovative farming practices to reduce chemical dependency and enhance soil health. Staggered planting, composting of plant waste, and biological pest control using species like Trichogramma and Chrysoperia have significantly reduced the use of synthetic chemicals by 50%, eliminating 4,830.75 kilograms of chemical inputs annually. Cotton plants are carefully monitored throughout their growth, with sustainable techniques like mulching post-harvest plant material back into the soil to enrich it and eliminate waste. The farm is also exploring higher planting densities to improve productivity and optimize resource use.
Agro Pima is testing mesh house environments as chemical-free pest control solutions and planning to dedicate 100 acres exclusively to Organic Cotton production.
In addition to sustainable farming, Agro Pima invests in forward-thinking innovation to further its environmental efforts. Current projects include composting cotton scraps and washing seeds to meet organic certification requirements.
A large water reservoir ensures consistent irrigation even during dry seasons, showing thoughtful resource management.
Worker well-being is a central focus for Agro Pima. The farm provides high-quality facilities, including bathrooms, water stations, and shaded areas, ensuring a safe and comfortable working environment. Personal protective equipment is provided to prioritize safety, and the farm supports a local women’s shelter for survivors of abuse, highlighting its commitment to social responsibility and community support.
Hand-harvested Peruvian Pima Cotton features exceptionally long staple fibers, resulting in a luxuriously soft, durable fabric that resists pilling. Garments made from this fiber have an extended lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacement and minimizing waste. Even if these garments eventually reach a landfill, 100% Peruvian Pima Cotton biodegrades in approximately three months under suitable conditions, further reinforcing its sustainability.
Our vertically integrated manufacturing process in Peru amplifies the eco-friendly attributes of this material. From seed to garment, every stage—spinning, knitting, cutting, and sewing—is completed locally, primarily in and around Lima. This localized production minimizes transportation emissions, significantly reducing our carbon footprint compared to standard industry practices. Furthermore, our factories are committed to zero waste, repurposing fabric scraps into items like mops, rags, and mattress fillers, ensuring a circular supply chain that keeps waste out of landfills.
By combining the quality of Peruvian Pima Cotton with Agro Pima’s sustainable practices and our commitment to ethical manufacturing, we are able to produce garments that honor tradition, support communities, and promote a more sustainable future.
