Unique Joint Cotton Scheme

Cotton Australia and Cotton Incorporated have announced a joint programme to raise awareness of the responsible growing practices among cotton producers in Australia and the United States called Cotton LEADS?, the programme is aimed at textile brands, retailers and manufacturers committed to sourcing cotton that is grown in a responsible and transparent manner. Validating the Cotton LEADS programme are the national-level oversight, regulatory enforcement, and transparency of practices common to both countries. Combined, Australia and the United States account for roughly 17 per cent of global cotton production.

"Cotton LEADS is designed to assist businesses along the cotton supply chain with their sustainability goals," says Berrye Worsham, President and CEO of Cotton Incorporated. "Apparel brands, retailers, and manufacturers require large volumes and a reliable supply of responsibly-produced fibre, as well as proof of responsible production. Through Cotton LEADS we demonstrate how cotton grown in the United States and Australia can help meet these requirements," adds Worsham.

"Cotton producers in Australia and the US pioneered practices that have resulted in impressive, country-wide environmental gains," explains Adam Kay, CEO of Cotton Australia. "Both countries approach improvement on a national level. This includes national reporting and regulatory enforcement, but also facilitates the national implementation of best practices and the ability to collect data on a national level," adds Kay. (More information can be found at: www.cottonleads.org.)