Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)
Issuing Organization:
Better Cotton Initiative
Label purpose:
The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) aims to transform cotton production worldwide by making Better Cotton a mainstream commodity. BCI focuses on reducing the environmental impact of cotton production, improving livelihoods and economic development in cotton-producing areas, and providing transparency and traceability in the cotton supply chain.
Certification Criteria:
BCI certification requires cotton producers to meet standards that focus on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. These include efficient use of water, care for the health of the natural environment, reducing harmful chemicals, and ensuring cotton is harvested by farmers who work in safe conditions, receive fair pay, and have decent work conditions.
Geographical Coverage:
BCI certification requires cotton producers to meet standards that focus on environmental, social, and economic sustainability. These include efficient use of water, care for the health of the natural environment, reducing harmful chemicals, and ensuring cotton is harvested by farmers who work in safe conditions, receive fair pay, and have decent work conditions.
Target Industries/Segments:
The BCI certification targets cotton producers, retailers, and brands in the textile and clothing industry committed to sourcing sustainable cotton.
Certification Process:
Cotton producers participating in BCI undergo a rigorous assessment to ensure they comply with BCI’s sustainability criteria. This includes training and capacity building to meet the standards. Retailers and brands commit to sourcing a certain percentage of their cotton as Better Cotton and must adhere to the chain of custody requirements to ensure traceability from farm to final product.
Certificate Validity:
For cotton producers, adherence to BCI standards is assessed regularly through the BCI’s Assurance Program, which includes continuous improvement processes. Retailers and brands commit to annual sourcing targets and must report on their progress.
Benefits for Consumers/Producers:
Purchasing products made with Better Cotton ensures they support sustainable cotton farming practices. BCI provides producers access to global markets and supports adopting more sustainable practices. For retailers and brands, it enhances sustainability credentials and meets consumer demand for ethical and environmental responsibility.
Sustainability Impact:
BCI promotes environmental sustainability by encouraging practices that reduce the use of water and chemicals and protect biodiversity in cotton farming. It also aims to improve the livelihoods of cotton farmers and workers by promoting better working conditions and fair labour practices. Overall, BCI contributes to a more sustainable cotton industry, which can positively impact the environment and communities involved in cotton production.
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