Worldwide, around 81% of the natural fibres processed in the textile industry are cotton. A large proportion of this is grown in India, often using conventional cultivation methods. However, these are associated with many problems. The ecological risks include, for example, soil erosion, partly due to the use of toxic chemicals. In addition, working conditions in cotton fields are often poor: due to a lack of protective equipment, farmers come into direct contact with harmful chemicals. Exploitation, child labour and inadequate pay are also common abuses.