U.S. cotton's increasing global role in sustainability, innovation, health and hygiene

The U.S. is the third-largest producer of cotton in the world and is by far the largest exporter (with almost a 40% share). The U.S. has 16,000 cotton farm families, who own and live on the land. As families who pass on their farms to future generations, it’s in their interests to take care of the land. The U.S. growers have a high rate of adoption for precision agriculture and best management practices. Importantly, the U.S. legal framework covers environmental regulations on pesticides, labor, wages, working conditions, safety and health. U.S. cotton is also regulated as a food crop, making it safe for people and the environment.

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The U.S. has a comprehensive system for monitoring and measuring key sustainability outcomes. Over the past 35 years, U.S. cotton production has used 82% less water per bale and 38% less energy, reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 30%, all while reducing land use per bale by 31%. The adoption of practices such as minimal tillage, GPS and sensor-driven precision agriculture, and the growing of winter cover crops have further improved soil health, reducing loss and erosion by 44% per acre and increasing soil carbon levels.

The U.S. is the only country in the world with quantifiable, established and measurable goals for continued improvement in environmental stewardship. The U.S. cotton industry is committed to continuous improvement and innovation, in order to set a new standard in more sustainable cotton production.