ALTRINCHAM, United Kingdom—Following a new emphasis on sustainability, manufacturing and exports of Egyptian cotton hit five-year highs during the 2018-2019 season, according to a statement from the Cotton Egypt Association.
The association, an independent body responsible for the global Egyptian cotton brand, has been supporting the implementation of the Egyptian Cotton Project, which involves activities that include a training, education and awareness approach across the cotton supply chain the statement said. This falls under the association’s collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization to implement the Egyptian Cotton Project, CottonforLife and Better Cotton initiatives, to enhance and advance sustainability of Egyptian cotton while reducing contamination.
The Egyptian Cotton Project has begun education programs which promote farmers’ and workers’ health and welfare, gender equality and entrepreneurial opportunities for youth. These initiatives include awareness training sessions addressing topics such as child labor, the importance of education and qualified employment to serve as a positive alternative for youth in rural areas, the statement said.
“Egyptian Cotton is already the finest in the world,” said the association’s executive director, Khaled Schuman. “Our goal and ambition is to make Egyptian cotton not only the most sustainable cotton, but one which has a traceable and transparent supply chain with positive impacts at every step along it—from the farmer to the brand, the retailer and the consumer.”
