The Water Footprint of Cotton: Understanding the Impact on Water Scarcity

Cotton, a widely used fabric in the fashion industry, carries a heavy water footprint that significantly contributes to water scarcity. The staggering amount of water required to produce a single cotton t-shirt is eye-opening, and it's crucial to be aware of the implications on our planet's water resources. In this article, we delve into the water-intensive nature of cotton production and explore more sustainable alternatives like hemp. Let's uncover the double-edged sword of cotton and its impact on global water scarcity.

Cotton's Thirst for Water

Cotton cultivation is notorious for its high water demand, with just one cotton t-shirt consuming approximately 2,500 litres of water during its production (depending on its origin). To put it into perspective, that's equivalent to the amount of water one person drinks over two and a half years! As a crop, cotton often requires irrigation in addition to rainwater, leading to water depletion from rivers, lakes, and other sources, exacerbating water scarcity.

Water Scarcity in India

In countries like India, where cotton is extensively grown for export, the water needed to grow cotton for a year could provide over half the population with 100 litres of water daily for an entire year. Astonishingly, more than 90 million people in India, over 6% of the population, lack access to safe water. The virtual water used in cotton production has significant implications for regions facing water scarcity and depletion.

Hemp: A Sustainable Alternative

In contrast to cotton, hemp emerges as a more sustainable alternative, using approximately 80% less water per kilogram. With its lower water demand, hemp poses a viable solution for reducing the strain on water resources while still providing a durable and versatile fabric.

Challenges Beyond Irrigation

The excessive water wastage in cotton production is not solely attributed to irrigation; inefficient water usage and pollution from pesticide use also play a significant role. Chemicals used in fabric dyeing further pollute water sources, contaminating rivers and lakes. The fashion industry's pressure to produce clothing at lower costs exacerbates this issue, causing an estimated 70% of China's rivers and lakes to be contaminated by the wastewater produced by the industry.

Considering the "Virtual Water"

When purchasing cotton products, it's essential to consider the "virtual water" that goes into their production. The sheer volume of water used in cotton cultivation can be staggering, especially in regions with limited access to safe drinking water. In India alone, the water used in cotton production could provide water to a significant portion of the population for an entire year.

Conclusion

Understanding the water footprint of cotton is crucial in addressing global water scarcity and promoting sustainable practices in the fashion industry. As we become more conscious of the impact of our choices, embracing alternatives like hemp can help alleviate the strain on water resources while still delivering high-quality and eco-friendly fabrics. At Sun Glory (HK) Enterprise, we are committed to supporting sustainable practices and partnering with brands that value environmental responsibility.

Join us on the journey towards a more water-efficient and sustainable fashion industry.