Stuttgart, Germany – As the global demand for sustainable textiles continues to rise, the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) have joined forces to urge industry leaders, businesses and stakeholders to take decisive action in supporting farmers transitioning to organic cotton. GOTS and OCA, as part the #BehindTheSeams, campaign are highlighting the critical need to bolster the supply of organic fibres by supporting growers during the challenging transition from conventional to organic farming, in addition to educating consumers about choosing “organic in-conversion” cotton textiles.
The #BehindTheSeams 2024 campaign, running throughout September, provides unique insights into the people and practices behind sustainable textiles, showcasing the environmental and social benefits of organic-certified fibres.
Bridging the gap: supporting farmers during the in-conversion period
The solution to a growing demand for organic cotton lies in empowering more farmers to grow organic fibres. Switching from conventional to organic farming requires a vital stage known as the “in-conversion” period that can last three years, during which farmers face challenges such as fluctuating crop conditions and market uncertainties. The industry must provide support in this process.
To assist these farmers, OCA provides critical resources such as capacity-building, premium payments and market linkages. During the 2023-2024 cotton season, OCA worked with over 35,000 in-conversion farmers in India and Pakistan as part of a broader programme that supports over 80,000 farmers. This impact has been made possible through the commitments of 16 brands and retailers participating in OCA’s Farm Programme.
A win-win partnership for brands and farmers
Transitioning to organic farming requires significant knowledge and resources, and it`s an experience that no farmer should face alone. Brands that commit to purchasing in-conversion cotton invest in the additional support and inputs farmers require, resulting in certified crops with significant environmental and economic benefits. More brands need to join OCA`s Farm Programme, which addresses existing challenges in organic cotton farming by providing farmers with tools, expertise and market commitments from buyers, ensuring higher earnings and a secure supply of organic fibres.
Join the movement for organic cotton
The #BehindTheSeams campaign calls on brands, retailers and stakeholders across the textile industry to act now by supporting farmers during this critical in-conversion phase. By joining OCA’s Farm Programme, companies can make a tangible impact on the future of organic cotton, securing not only a sustainable supply of organic fibres but also contributing to global sustainability goals. Learn more here about who needs to be certified, the importance of organic fibres in sustainability and the in-conversion process.