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The Brazilian Association of Cotton Producers (Abrapa) renewed its partnership with the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI). The two entities have been operating as a benchmark since 2013, attesting to the sustainability of Brazilian cotton farming. Brazil is the largest supplier of Better Cotton cotton in the world, with 38% of the global market.
The realignment of the Responsible Brazilian Cotton (ABR) and BCI program protocols was done to incorporate new global sustainability initiatives, related to integrated pest and disease management, soil health and good socioeconomic and sustainable agricultural practices. The update will be done every five years.
The new phase of the agreement was celebrated in a virtual meeting held last Friday (23), with the presence of the CEO of BCI, Alan MacClay, and the entire board of directors of the most recognized institution for accrediting fiber of sustainable origin in the world. Based in Switzerland, the non-governmental organization brings together major brands such as Nike, Adidas, Ralph Lauren, Levis, H&M, among others, on its board of directors.
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“BCI is a strategic project, which has positioned our cotton in the world and has answered many consumer questions regarding how to produce in Brazil. We are great allies”, said Abrapa’s executive director, Márcio Portocarrero. He also highlighted the association's commitment to regulating and implementing biofactories and encouraging on-farm production of bioinputs in the country.
Portocarrero took the opportunity to talk about the Brazilian project to quantify carbon sequestration in cotton production, to sell credits with companies around the world. “It’s the big step we’re going to take in the coming years. It will be an additional guarantee of sustainability and a source of income for cotton farmers”, he highlighted.
Alan MacClay demonstrated enthusiasm for Brazilian initiatives. “All of this is very encouraging, there is a perfect alignment of our strategies”, stated the CEO of BCI. “It is interesting to see actions beyond our agreement. We have to be a learning community”, he highlighted. This is precisely the objective of the first BCI Large Farms Symposium, which will take place on August 11th and will bring together Brazilian and international speakers to exchange ideas and experiences about cotton farming. The virtual event is free and will have simultaneous translation.
Source: Notícias Agrícolas
