Recycling is the reprocessing of old materials into new products, with the aims of preventing the waste of potentially useful materials, reducing the consumption of fresh raw materials, reducing energy usage, reducing air (from incineration) and water (from landfilling) pollution by reducing the need for "conventional" waste disposal, and lowering greenhouse gas emissions as compared to virgin production.
Organic production is based on a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers.
In order for wool to be certified as "organic," it must be produced in accordance with federal standards for organic livestock production. Federal requirements for organic livestock production include: Livestock feed and forage used from the last third of gestation must be certified organic; Use of synthetic hormones and genetic engineering is prohibited; Use of synthetic pesticides (internal, external, and on pastures) is prohibited, and Producers must encourage livestock health through good cultural and management practices.
Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a reduced impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and build biologically diverse agriculture. Third-party certification organizations verify that organic producers use only methods and materials allowed in organic production.
Wood harvested from carefully managed forests or reclaimed from old buildings or furniture. A number of programs can ‘certify’ wood as sustainability – the most well known internationally is the FSC.