The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
by Charles “Chaz” Holt, Director of Field Programs, U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
As cotton growers, you understand the deep connection between your land, your livelihood, and your legacy. This legacy is about more than just the yields you produce; it’s about being responsible stewards of the environment and ensuring a thriving future for generations to come.
Today, consumers and brands are increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their purchasing decisions. They are seeking greater transparency and assurance that the cotton in their products is grown responsibly. This shift in consumer consciousness presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the U.S. cotton industry.
That is where the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol comes in. The Trust Protocol recognizes that every farm is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to sustainability. It’s designed to be a flexible system that empowers you with data and resources to choose the practices that work best for your land and your business, while still allowing you to demonstrate your commitment to continuous improvement. By tracking key metrics like water use, land use, and greenhouse gas emissions, you gain valuable insights into your farm’s environmental footprint. This information empowers you to make informed decisions, optimize your practices, and demonstrate the progress you’re making toward a more sustainable future.
Taking your commitment a step further, the Climate Smart Cotton Program provides resources and support for growers to implement Climate Smart Agriculture Practices. This program offers three levels of engagement, each with increasing levels of financial support and opportunities:
• Level 1 – U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol Membership: This foundational level provides $5 per acre up to 706 acres for enrolling in the Trust Protocol, uploading bales to the Protocol platform, and exploring the feasibility of new climate smart practices.
• Level 2 – Implement a Climate Smart Practice Change: Growers can receive financial risk-share for up to three years for adopting a new Climate Smart Agriculture practice change such as cover crops, no-till, strip-till, or a nutrient management plan.
•Level 3 – Carbon Inset Payment: This level allows growers to contract for carbon inset sales based on the verified emission reductions achieved through their Climate Smart Agriculture practices.
The benefits extend beyond the farm gate. The Trust Protocol provides a platform to confidently share your commitment to sustainability with brands and retailers around the world. This fosters trust and enhances the reputation of Protocol Cotton as a sustainably grown fiber.
The future of the U.S. cotton industry depends on our ability to meet the evolving needs of the marketplace. By participating in the Trust Protocol and the Climate Smart Cotton Program, you’re not just growing cotton, you’re cultivating a more sustainable future for your farm, your community, and the entire industry.
PCCA demonstrates its commitment to the Trust Protocol through the leadership of Dahlen Hancock, Chairman of the Board for PCCA, and Carlos Garcia, PCCA Director of Sales, both members of the Trust Protocol Board of Directors. Their dedication to this program underscores PCCA’s commitment to supporting growers in their sustainability journey and ensuring the long-term success of the U.S. cotton industry.
Here are a few important reminders to keep in mind:
– Bale Uploads: Don’t forget to work with your gin to upload your bales to the Protocol platform this harvest season. This makes sure that your cotton can be marketed as Protocol Cotton to offer transparency through the supply chain.
– Enrollment: Mark your calendars – Enrollment in the Trust Protocol and applications for the Climate Smart Cotton Program open in January.
– Stay Informed: Watch for announcements about upcoming webinars, where you can learn more about the Trust Protocol and the value it can bring to your operation. Save the date for the next webinar on January 29, 2025, which will focus on enrollment.
