Cotton in Conversion: cotton in transition
Cotton in Conversion (CiC) is cotton grown during the conversion from conventional to organic farming. Depending on the standard and growing region, the conversion usually takes two to three years. During this time the cotton is expressly not certified organic, and that is exactly why we explain here what lies behind it.
Cotton in Conversion is cotton that is already grown according to the rules of organic farming but has not yet completed the conversion phase. During this time, soil and cultivation are converted to organic farming. Only then do the farmers receive certification for organic farming and the premium that comes with it.
Why erlich textil uses Cotton in Conversion
Certified organic cotton still makes up only a small share of the world's cotton. Because we buy CiC cotton, farmers don't have to sell their harvest from the conversion period on the conventional market. That makes the switch more economically viable.
What CiC means:
- Cultivation already follows the rules of organic farming, without synthetic pesticides
- Farmers have a buyer for the harvest from the conversion period
- Fibre quality and feel are comparable to our organically grown cotton
What CiC does not mean: during this phase the cotton is not certified organic. That's why we never call it “organic” or “organically grown”. Which items contain CiC is stated in the product description.
Learn more about Cotton in Conversion
The non-profit organisation Textile Exchange works on standards for fibres and materials in the textile industry. On their website you'll find the criteria of the CiC programme in detail.
Common Questions About Cotton in Conversion
How does CiC differ from cotton (kbA)?
In its certification status. CiC cotton is already grown according to the rules of organic farming, but the conversion phase is still ongoing. That is why it is not certified organic. Fibre quality and feel are comparable.
How long does the conversion take?
Depending on the standard and growing region, usually two to three years. During the conversion, chemical-synthetic pesticides are already no longer used. Only then can the cotton be certified organic.
How do I identify CiC products at erlich textil?
For CiC cotton, the material details of each item state "cotton (from conversion to organic farming)".
What does buying it do for the farmers?
By buying CiC cotton, farmers do not have to sell their harvest on the cheaper conventional market. That gives them a buyer during the transition phase and makes the switch more economically viable.
