Better Cotton Initiative

Better Cotton Initiative (Better Cotton) is the world's largest cotton sustainability programme, working to transform cotton production so that it is better for the farmers who produce it, the environment and the future of the cotton sector. As a global nonprofit organisation, Better Cotton brings together farmers, businesses, governments and civil society organisations to promote more sustainable cotton production and responsible sourcing.

Through its globally recognised standards, farmer training programmes and supply chain initiatives, Better Cotton supports more sustainable farming practices, strengthens livelihoods and improves environmental outcomes. By collaborating with stakeholders across the cotton value chain, the organisation is helping build a more resilient, transparent and sustainable cotton industry.

Quote Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland

Major Areas of Work

Sustainable Cotton Production: Better Cotton develops and implements the Better Cotton Standard, enabling farmers to adopt environmentally, socially and economically sustainable farming practices while improving productivity and resilience.

Farmer Capacity Building: The organisation provides training and technical support to cotton farmers on climate-smart agriculture, water stewardship, soil health, integrated pest management and responsible labour practices.

Supply Chain & Traceability: Better Cotton works with suppliers, manufacturers and global brands to strengthen traceability, improve transparency and promote responsible sourcing across the cotton value chain.

Climate Action & Biodiversity: Through sustainable farming practices and collaborative initiatives, Better Cotton supports climate resilience, biodiversity conservation and the efficient use of natural resources.

Market Transformation: The organisation engages businesses, policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of sustainable cotton and drive long-term sector-wide change.

Major Initiatives & Programmes

Better Cotton Standard: A globally recognised sustainability standard that provides farmers with practical principles and criteria for producing cotton in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

Farmer Training Programme: Delivered through local programme partners, this initiative equips cotton farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to improve yields, reduce environmental impact and strengthen livelihoods.

Growth & Innovation Fund: A funding mechanism that supports farmer training, programme implementation, innovation and sustainability projects through investments from brands and development partners.

Traceability Programme: Enables businesses to source Better Cotton through enhanced traceability systems, improving supply chain transparency and accountability.

Impact

Better Cotton Initiative works across 15 cotton-producing countries and has a membership of over 2,500 organisations spanning the global cotton value chain. Better Cotton now accounts for approximately 23% of global cotton production, supporting millions of farmers through sustainable agricultural practices, capacity building and responsible sourcing initiatives.

Better Cotton Initiative offers opportunities for professionals passionate about sustainability, agriculture, climate action, supply chains, international development and stakeholder engagement who want to contribute to transforming one of the world's most important agricultural commodities.

Partners and Clients

Cotton farmers, programme partners, retailers, fashion brands, manufacturers, suppliers, governments, civil society organisations, research institutions, development agencies, donors and more than 2,500 member organisations across the global cotton value chain.

Leadership

Chief Executive Officer – Nick Weatherill

Chief Operating Officer – Lena Staafgard

Chief Commercial Officer – Alia Malik