The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol announced its membership in the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC), the alliance for sustainable production in the apparel, footwear and textile industries. The Trust Protocol joins over 250 global organizations from multiple sectors that have committed to furthering sustainability and transparency in the supply chain.
“During a time of ever-growing supply chain scrutiny, being a member of the SAC is further validation of how the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol is working to set a new standard in more sustainable cotton production,” said Dr. Gary Adams, president, The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. “While our grower members have a long history of sustainable cotton growing practices, they understand the importance of continuous improvement and have committed to meeting bold sustainability targets by 2025.”
As a member of the SAC, the Trust Protocol will provide a unique perspective from the U.S. cotton industry through collective work with other members to measure sustainability progress, collaborate on research, identify and mitigate industry challenges. As part of its core program, The Trust Protocol is focused on six key sustainability metrics including land use, soil carbon, water management, soil loss, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy efficiency.
“We welcome the addition of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol to the Sustainable Apparel Coalition and look forward to its participation in this industry-wide effort in sustainability,” SAC Executive Director Amina Razvi said. “Having The Trust Protocol as part of the Coalition widens the scope of our impact within the industry and accelerates the change we’re making towards responsible industry actions.”
The Trust Protocol has welcomed more than 600 grower members and 300 brands, retailers, mills, and manufacturer members since its launch in 2020. This includes Gap Inc. and its collection of purpose-led lifestyle brands Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta and UK retailers Byford and Next Plc. Other Trust Protocol member announcements include the first 10 U.S. mills to join and the first members in Latin America.
The Trust Protocol is included on the Textile Exchange’s list of 36 preferred fibers and materials that more than 170 participating brands and retailers can select from as part of The Textile Exchange’s Material Change Index program. The Trust Protocol is also working to align with existing standards in the cotton industry and is part of the Forum for the Future Cotton 2040 and the CottonUp guide.
Photo courtesy The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
