Better Cotton, the world’s largest cotton sustainability initiative, has recently unveiled its ‘2030 Strategy’ with the introduction of four new ‘Impact Targets’. These targets, described as “ambitious new metrics”, aim to bring about significant change at the field level in key areas of cotton production. The four targets focus on Soil Health, Women’s Empowerment, Sustainable Livelihoods, and Pesticides.
The Soil Health target is integral to sustainable cotton production. Better Cotton aims to ensure that 100% of their farmers improve the health of their soil. This initiative contributes to the overall goal of the organization, promoting a more sustainable approach to cotton farming.
In addition to soil health, Women’s Empowerment is a crucial target for Better Cotton. The organization aims to reach one million women in the cotton industry, providing them with programs and resources to promote equal decision-making and address climate-related issues. By empowering women in this sector, Better Cotton believes it can drive meaningful change and create a more inclusive and resilient cotton industry.
Sustainable Livelihoods is another key target for Better Cotton. This initiative focuses on increasing the net income and resilience of two million cotton farmers and workers. By improving livelihoods, Better Cotton aims to create a more sustainable and equitable cotton industry that benefits individuals and their communities.
Reducing the use and risk of synthetic pesticides is another major target for Better Cotton. The organization aims to decrease pesticide use by at least 50% among its farmers and workers. This is an important step towards promoting environmentally friendly cotton production and safeguarding the health and well-being of those working in the industry.
These Impact Targets complement the first commitment outlined in Better Cotton’s strategy, which is Climate Change Mitigation. By striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% per tonne of Better Cotton lint produced, the organization is actively working to combat climate change.
The development of these Impact Targets involved collaboration with leading civil society organizations and industry experts. Better Cotton recognizes the significance of the cotton sector in reducing poverty and promoting sustainability and equality. With over 22 million tonnes of cotton produced annually, cotton is undoubtedly one of the world’s most important renewable resources, found in diverse landscapes.
Alan McClay, CEO of Better Cotton, stressed the importance of driving impact at the field level to achieve the organization’s ambitions. He highlighted that these new Impact Targets will enable measurable progress towards more sustainable cotton production. By focusing on regenerative and climate-smart agriculture, Better Cotton aims to equip cotton farmers and workers to address their environmental impact, future-proof their operations, and adapt to the unpredictable effects of global warming.
The announcement of these new Impact Targets showcases Better Cotton’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and its dedication to making a positive impact in the cotton industry. By setting ambitious goals and collaborating with experts, Better Cotton is leading the charge in driving change and promoting a more sustainable future for cotton production.
For more information about Better Cotton and its initiatives, visit their website here. To learn more about sustainable farming practices, click here.
