Better Cotton volumes up by 13% in 2020
Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) has calculated that 23% of global cotton production in 2020 met its criteria for being classed as ‘better’. In the 2019-2020 cotton season, the retailers and brands among its members sourced 1.7 million tonnes of better cotton, an increase of 13% compared to the previous year.
It said there were now 2.7 million farmers in 23 countries producing cotton in line with its principles and criteria. It also said that it had welcomed more than 400 new members last year, taking the brands, manufacturers and other organisations that make up the different categories of BCI membership to more than 2,100 now.
It released the details in its 2020 annual report, which it published at the end of June.
The Geneva-based campaign group also paid tribute to its partners for “rapidly adapting their practices to evolving circumstances during the covid-19 pandemic” to continue delivering training and support to farmers last year.
Chief executive, Alan McClay, said BCI had also worked closely with stakeholders in 2020 “to refine our strategic approach” and align climate efforts with science-based targets. “We want to deliver real impact for cotton-farming communities,” Mr McClay added.
