Cotton Egypt Association (CEA), an independent body responsible for the global brand, has been supporting the implementation of ‘The Egyptian Cotton Project’ activities that include innovative training, education and awareness across the cotton supply chain. These efforts fall under the CEA’s collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, implementing ‘The Egyptian Cotton Project,’ and working with the Cotton for Life program and Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) to enhance and advance sustainability of Egyptian cotton, while reducing contamination.
The CEA’s cooperation with BCI has allowed the deployment of pilot cotton plantations supported by cotton traders, manufacturers and brands to pave the way for a BCI startup program in Egypt planned for the 2020-2021 cotton season.
Besides adopting organic production methods, reducing water consumption and pesticides, the Egyptian Cotton Project is implementing education programs that promote farmers’ and workers’ health and welfare, gender equality, and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people, and through 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 project’s stakeholders will continue to work toward enhancing the sustainability, inclusiveness and value addition of the long- and extra-long staple Egyptian Cotton by developing the economic, social and environmental performance of cotton manufacturers, and strengthening support institutions.
