In March 2009, Helvetas launched a nation-wide campaign in Switzerland to raise consumer awareness for textiles made from organic and fairtrade cotton. The campaign is implemented in collaboration with brands and retailers (Coop Switzerland, Switcher, Hess Natur), the State Secretariat of Economic Affairs SECO and various other organisations. It includes posters, a shop-finder where retailers can register their offer of organic and fairtrade textiles, and extensive media work.

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Source: Helvetas Organic & Fairtrade Competence Centre (Wednesday, April 01, 2009)

Fuel and fertiliser price hikes, insect infestations and chemical damage to soil have led some cotton farmers in West Africa to produce organic cotton. But the international recession has blunted demand for the new crop, according to an industry trade group.

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Source: IRIN Africa News (Tuesday, February 17, 2009)

Despite the difficult retail sector, most brands selling organic cotton remain upbeat about the market for organics with many brands and retailers planning to expand their offers in 2009 and 2010.

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Source: EcoTextile News (Wednesday, March 18, 2009)

A review of crops grown in rotation or as part of the organic cotton farm system.

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Source: Organic Exchange (Thursday, May 14, 2009)