U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol

The Trust Protocol contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, is recognized by Textile Exchange and Forum for the Future, and part of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cotton 2025 Sustainable Cotton Challenge, Cotton 2040, and Cotton Up initiatives. It has also been recognized and published in the ITC Standards Map, recognized as a standard for sustainable cotton by the Partnership for Sustainable Textiles, and confirmed as an ISEAL Community Member. Additionally, we have worked to ensure our program aligns with industry programs that help brand and retailer members utilize the tools provided by the Trust Protocol to further evidence their commitment to these specific initiatives. Findings from the 21-22 annual report also showed significant improvements compared to the 2015 Trust Protocol baseline with grower members demonstrating tangible results across all six key metrics: • 13% increase in land use efficiency • 14% increase in water use efficiency • 25% reduction in energy use • 21% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions • 78% reduction in soil loss • Positive Soil Conservation Index for 70% of growers