The cotton production program titled "Fibermax Certification with sustainable agricultural practices CSF" has been implemented in collaboration with BASF since 2015. It is the main pillar of the company's environmental strategy.
The goal of the program is to highlight the cotton produced from FiberMax® varieties, through a method of production that is socially just, financially sustainable and environmentally adaptable.
The implementation, control and certification of the program takes place by third parties and independent bodies, specifically the companies Aeiforiki and QMSCERT. The CSF program leads the effort of Thrakika Ekkokkistiria for the production of Cotton+, a higher quality cotton.
A production using sustainable farming practices means that in every stage of the crop cycle, the environment, the farmers and the society are taken into account. In order to do this, a protocol is followed, which requires new data and improvements every year.
Based on this:
- Customers receive premium cotton, since Fibermax varieties are known worldwide for the high-quality cotton they produce
- Farmers enjoy higher prices
- Activities and sponsorships to support the local community take place
- Measurable goals are set every year for the protection of the environment
- Attention is given to educating farmers on environmental issues and personal safety issues
- A free medical check-up is offered to participating farmers since 2019
All the details of the program are documented in the report for the year 2018/19.
In coming years, activities in the sustainability sector will focus on soil health and regenerative agriculture.
The implementation of smart farming has been a great help in the adoption of sustainable farming practices, since with this system there are less fertilizers and chemicals used, as well as irrigation water.
Traceability
When it comes to traceability, the CSF program outperforms other sustainable cotton production programs on a global level. Information regarding crop in the plots participating in the program is widely available on the internet.
Thrakika Ekkokkistiria places great importance on traceability and allows the whole process to be monitored: from the ginning mill to the garment that the end consumer will buy.