BCI (Better Cotton Initiative)

It is not limited to compliance with a set of standards; it is about being part of a global movement to improve the cotton industry for people, the environment, and the future of the sector.
Foundation: 2005
Sector: Textile

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Objective

Launched in 2005 and led by WWF – World Wide Fund for Nature, the BCI – Better Cotton Initiative is a non-profit organization that, in cooperation with various stakeholders and organizations, seeks to establish a set of policies for more sustainable cotton production worldwide.

In this line of action, BCI prioritizes: continuous improvement of good production practices; fair labor relations; and market transparency and cotton traceability.

Description

The Better Cotton Standard System is designed to support farmers in ensuring that cotton production is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the people involved in its cultivation and for the economies of producing countries.
The growing demand for supply chain transparency and visibility aids effective risk management and operational efficiency through improved practices and opens pathways to a valuable network of contacts within the global Better Cotton community.

Committing to Better Cotton through its Chain of Custody Certification and Independent Assessment programs offers a multitude of benefits. It not only promotes environmentally friendly practices but also enhances market access and strengthens the reputation of producers, suppliers, and brands, meeting the growing consumer demand for sustainably sourced products.

Cotton Consumption Measurement: Independent Assessment

In addition to verification and traceability, cotton consumption measurement involves a compliance assessment, ensuring the reliability and consistency of cotton fiber consumption measurement by the Retailer and Brand in alignment with the Better Cotton methodology.
The requirements for the Independent Assessment have been in effect since January 2024. Retailer and Brand members (RB members) are responsible for selecting an assessor and covering any associated costs.
RB members are required to select an Independent Assessor from the Better Cotton Approved Assessors list. Internal audit teams or organizations not on the list cannot complete the assessment.
An Independent Assessment must be conducted every three years, with the period determined by the date of issuance of the first Statement of Results.