This story was updated Nov. 6.
The organic agriculture industry is stepping up its campaign against conventionally grown cotton, pointing to the crop as one of the most heavily treated with pesticides in the U.S.
In a new report funded in part by the Naturepedic organic mattress and bedding company, The Organic Center said cotton receives the most pesticides per acre of seven crops the Agriculture Department tracks for use of the chemicals. The report from the nonprofit research organization is the latest salvo in an ongoing debate about the most environmentally responsible way to produce cotton.
“Given the risks posed to humans and the environment from conventional cotton production, the time is now to make the change and transition to organic production methods,” the report said.
