Switzerland's Better Cotton welcomes new council members

“At Walmart we are committed to becoming a regenerative company, and Better Cotton’s seven Principles align well with our sustainability ambitions across climate, nature, waste, and people. From a retailer and brand perspective, we want to partner with other organisations to support the cotton farmers around the world by promoting technical training, cost-effective and low-impact farming practices, and fair working conditions,” said Gerson Fajardo, director – sustainability, raw materials, and benchmarking at Walmart.

“IKEA would like to play an active role in helping steer the future direction and development of Better Cotton by proactive representation of the sector from the perspective of retailers and brands. We are unique because of our integrated supply chain and market position. With our leadership in the global cotton market, along with our supply chain knowledge and focus on continuous improvement and betterment of ourselves and the industries we operate in, we believe we can help Better Cotton reach its goals of creating a better cotton industry for people and the planet,” said Arvind Rewal, global cotton development manager of Ikea.

“As an industry, we have an incredible opportunity to transform the cotton value chain into a fully traceable and sustainable one where everyone benefits from farmer to consumer. The future is bright, and I look forward to walking this journey together,” said Ashok Hegde, CEO – fibre, agri-industrials & ag services.

“Cotton producers from all countries – whether smallholders or large farms – need a strong voice on the Better Cotton Council to represent them. I’d like to share the experiences that I’ve gained from being a partner in the transformation of the Australian cotton industry over the last 30 years and my knowledge across production, ginning, and marketing to guide other Council Members in the discussion process to get the best outcome for farmers,” said Bob Dall’Alba, former CEO, Queensland Cotton.

“Having laid the foundation for sustainable cotton, Better Cotton started a new strategic path towards scaling and generating an even deeper impact for farmers, workers and the environment. I am looking forward to contributing to this journey and bringing in the expertise that Solidaridad has gained working in the fashion supply chain,” said Tamar Hoek, senior policy advisor sustainable fashion, Solidaridad.

The Better Cotton Council is an elected and appointed board that works to shift cotton towards a more sustainable future. The council sits at the centre of the organisation and is responsible for Better Cotton’s strategic direction. The council members represent brands, retailers, manufacturers, suppliers, producers, and civil society across the cotton industry. Together, they shape the policy that will help cotton communities survive and thrive, while protecting and restoring the environment. 

Starting with the Geneva meeting, the council will be addressing the final phase of the 2030 target setting, traceability, P&C revision, Better Cotton countries, benchmarking, partner performance, and governance in the next two years as well as standing items such as operating plans, budget, and risk management. The next council elections for Better Cotton are scheduled for June 2024 when the council will be partially renewed.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (NB)