Better Cotton Certification

What is Better Cotton?

Better Cotton is a globally recognized sustainability programme that promotes more sustainable cotton production practices. The programme aims to improve environmental, social, and economic outcomes in cotton farming while supporting the long-term sustainability of the cotton sector.

Better Cotton certification and verification activities provide assurance that participating organizations comply with the applicable Better Cotton requirements and maintain effective systems for the handling and traceability of Better Cotton throughout the supply chain.

Scope of Better Cotton Certification

Better Cotton certification applies to organizations involved in the cotton supply chain, including:

  • Cotton Producers

  • Ginners

  • Spinning Mills

  • Textile Manufacturers

  • Garment Manufacturers

  • Traders and Merchants

  • Suppliers and Exporters

  • Retailers and Brands

The certification process evaluates compliance with applicable Better Cotton requirements, chain of custody controls, and traceability systems.

Objectives of Better Cotton

The Better Cotton Programme aims to:

  • Promote responsible cotton production practices

  • Support environmental stewardship and resource conservation

  • Improve transparency within the cotton supply chain

  • Strengthen traceability and accountability

  • Enhance confidence in sustainable cotton sourcing claims

  • Encourage continuous improvement throughout the cotton sector

  • Support responsible and sustainable cotton value chains

Key Requirements

Chain of Custody

Organizations must establish and maintain effective systems to ensure the traceability and integrity of Better Cotton materials throughout the supply chain.

Material Accountability

Certified organizations are required to maintain accurate records of material purchases, processing activities, inventory management, and sales transactions.

Operational Controls

Appropriate procedures and controls must be implemented to manage certified materials and maintain compliance with programme requirements.

Documentation and Record Keeping

Organizations must maintain documented information and records demonstrating conformity with applicable Better Cotton requirements.

Traceability Systems

Certified entities are required to implement systems that support transparency and accountability throughout production and supply chain activities.

Certification Process

1. Application

The organization submits an application detailing its activities, facilities, products, and relevant supply chain operations.

2. Documentation Review

Relevant records, procedures, and operational information are reviewed to assess conformity with certification requirements.

3. On-Site Audit

A qualified auditor conducts an independent assessment to verify compliance with programme requirements, operational controls, and traceability systems.

4. Evaluation of Findings

Audit findings are reviewed, and any identified non-conformities must be addressed before certification can be granted.

5. Certification Decision

Upon successful completion of the assessment process, certification is issued in accordance with the applicable programme requirements.

6. Surveillance Activities

Periodic assessments may be conducted to verify continued compliance and effective implementation of certification requirements.

7. Recertification

Organizations are required to undergo reassessment at defined intervals to maintain certification status.

Benefits of Better Cotton Certification

  • Independent verification of compliance with Better Cotton requirements

  • Enhanced supply chain transparency and accountability

  • Improved credibility of sustainable cotton claims

  • Increased confidence among customers and stakeholders

  • Recognition within global cotton and textile supply chains

  • Support for responsible sourcing initiatives

  • Strengthened reputation in international markets

Who Can Be Certified?

Better Cotton certification is applicable to:

  • Cotton Producers

  • Ginning Facilities

  • Spinning Mills

  • Textile Processing Units

  • Garment Manufacturers

  • Traders and Merchants

  • Exporters and Suppliers

  • Brands and Retailers

  • Other Supply Chain Participants Handling Better Cotton Materials

Maintaining Certification

Certified organizations must continue to comply with applicable Better Cotton requirements, maintain effective traceability systems, and successfully complete periodic audits to retain certification status. Ongoing monitoring helps ensure the integrity and credibility of Better Cotton claims throughout the supply chain.