Glossary

IPM is an acronym for integrated pest management. These describe strategies that reduce, but do not completely eradicate the reliance on pesticides. IPM emphasises the growth of healthy crops and encourages natural pest control systems

The term Label refers to written, printed or graphic display on the packaging or product which gives details of the organic, ecological or ethical nature of its origin.

Labelling: Written, printed or graphic display on the packaging or product which gives details of the organic, ecological or ethical nature of its origin and is displayed at retail or point of sale.

An LCA (Life Cycle Analysis) is the investigation and valuation of the environmental impacts of a given product or service caused or necessitated by its existence.

Marketing is about communicating the value of a product, service or brand to customers or consumers for the purpose of promoting or selling that product, service, or brand.

Nontoxic is a term related to a substance or chemical which is not known to cause any adverse physiological effects in animals, plants, humans or the environment.

NOP is an acronym for the National Organic Program. NOP is a US federal regulatory framework governing organic food, although the standard also applies to textiles are labelled and marketed in the USA.

A broad classification of many synthetic chemicals that, when applied to clothing, convert UV light wavelengths to visible light, thus making laundered clothes appear "whiter." Optical brighteners do not readily biodegrade and are considered toxic to aquatic life and as such are often regulated and restricted by most environmental standards.

Organic is a labelling term that refers to an agricultural product made in accordance with the IFOAM standards. Not to be confused with organic chemicals and carbon containing compounds. In chemistry, organic means substances containing carbon atoms.

This is a production system that is managed in accordance with the rules of the global organic system (IFOAM). Agricultural practices should integrate cultural, biological and mechanical practices that foster cycling of resources, promote ecological balance and conserve biodiversity.