How can sustainable agriculture make the fashion industry greener?

 

In the quest for eco-friendly practices, brands and designers are increasingly turning to regenerative cotton farming to address their carbon footprint. The fashion industry, notorious for its environmental impact, is now embracing sustainable cotton to meet recycling and waste accountability set by EU regulations and adapt to the challenges posed by climate change.

Situated near Turkey's Aegean coast, cotton fields owned by manufacturer SÖKTAŞ serve as a testament to the transformative power of regenerative farming. Here, the soil, enriched by nature-based methods, absorbs over 18 tonnes of carbon per hectare annually – a significant stride towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to the annual output of about 15 petrol-powered cars.

Stella McCartney, a pioneer in sustainable fashion, introduced SÖKTAŞ to regenerative agriculture in 2018. The four-year success story of this collaboration underscores the profound impact of healthier soil on cotton quality. The fashion industry, in its bid to meet the U.N.'s Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action's target of decarbonizing by 2050, is increasingly endorsing regenerative projects to reduce emissions from textile manufacturing.

A pilot regenerative cotton project in Turkey, led by the WWF, revealed that soil carbon storage could be up to 15 times higher than conventional farming methods. The benefits extend beyond carbon absorption, creating more resilient and lively soil. Regenerative farming, by avoiding excessive tilling, preserves the soil's biological makeup, fostering its sustainability.

This environmentally conscious shift in the fashion industry aligns with the circular economy model, aiming to prioritize recycling and reuse over virgin materials. Sustainable cotton initiatives like Better Cotton, Fairtrade, and Organic have paved the way, with regenerative cotton gaining momentum. Leading denim producers, including Bossa and DNM, are actively engaging in partnerships to promote this eco-friendly practice.

As the European Commission aims to implement regulations for sustainable fashion by 2028, the significance of the EU market could drive a substantial shift in sourcing practices. While existing legislation does not specifically address regenerative farming, proposed laws like the EU's Soil Health Law could provide indirect support.

The transition to regenerative agriculture necessitates investment in farmers, emphasizing the importance of just and inclusive practices. Standards and certifications from organizations like the Regenerative Organic Alliance or regenagri are emerging, ensuring a fair transition for farmers. Despite initial challenges, including higher costs, regenerative cotton farming proves to be a sustainable solution that benefits both the environment and the farming community.

By prioritizing regenerative practices, the fashion industry contributes not only to reducing its carbon footprint but also to building resilience against climate change impacts. As more brands adopt regenerative cotton, the potential to transform climate-vulnerable sectors like cotton farming becomes increasingly promising. The fashion industry's commitment to sustainability through regenerative practices signifies a significant step towards a greener and more responsible future