Better Cotton publishes its first-ever Impact Report

Switzerland-based, Better Cotton, has released its first-ever Impact Report, which shares the most recent field-level results (2019-20 cotton season) and compares how licensed Better Cotton farmers in China, India, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Turkey performed on environmental, social, and economic criteria to those who weren’t.

Better Cotton producers utilized 16% less water than Comparison Cotton farmers in Tajikistan, 9% greater yields in India, and 12% less synthetic pesticide in Pakistan. According to Better Cotton’s research, the results are broken down by country and by sustainability indicator.

While the focus of Better Cotton is on supporting farmers on the ground, the report also considers pesticides, fertilizers, and water consumption, as well as acceptable work, yields, and profits.

Alia Malik, senior director of data and traceability, said that what they all want to see in sustainability is impact. They collect results data where feasible to ensure they’re making a real effect. This allows them to assess whether their strategy is working and identify areas for improvement. It also allows them to recognize accomplishments and highlight the value of their work to others.

Better Cotton’s key principle is continuous improvement, thus the research looks at how strengthening processes and services might have a bigger impact. Important projects such as the traceability workstream and the modification of the Better Cotton principles and standards are included.

Malik added that their primary goal is to assist cotton communities in surviving and prospering while also protecting and restoring the environment. However, their work entails a great deal more. To advance sustainability and encourage demand for Better Cotton among suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and brands, they partner with businesses and civil society organizations from across the cotton sector.