The Textile Exchange Cotton Round Table
I was curious and excited to participate in The Textile Exchange Cotton Round Table. At Madi and Pip we stand for a future that understands and supports a circular economy where people wear natural fibres and by doing so ensure that our planet is preserved and the local economy supported. Yes, we design and create fabulous fashion made in Australia; but we also exist to educate and drive meaningful change in the way people make and use fashion. To do this I think it’s important to be present where change is happening and to maintain a global perspective by speaking with others; gaining valuable insights, empathy and knowledge. All the while, sharing and contributing.
These are my notes and illustrations made. To get involved in the Cotton Virtual Global Summit on July 6 register via the link here.
Definition of preferred cotton
Core discussion around driving the advancement of preferred cotton, a global need for collaboration to collectively drive a new future.
Questions raised:
How do we build a framework that fits into the entire supply chain and with brands?
How can we keep growers abundant and diverse? Elizabeth (organic cotton) —- raised concerns that the average farmers’ age is 50. Brands need to support and connect to growers, stabalising their network and supply chains so that the younger generation may get involved.
Discussion points:
Need for responsible, resilient supply chains
Be proactive, not reactive (regarding human and labour rights)
Importance of letting growers make their own decisions, providing a menu of options to implement best fit for their climate.
A unified suite of materials standards under one harmonised system whilst embedding climate strategy and key impact outcomes. The biggest opportunity to make change is at the raw material and first stage of processing. The Standard is to provide a runway for conscious improvement so that we are welcoming new-comers to the journey whilst also recognising those in leadership.
Discussions centralised on the revisions of the standard and how it will drive results towards climate goals:
Importance of not just ticking boxes, but how we can think outside of those boxes to be transformational
We are better together
Importance of co-creating
Other points of discussion, as a global cotton industry we need to celebrate the good stories! Growers and or those in supply chains with an alternate practice creating positive impact! This prompts collaboration in the industry and education whilst also demonstrating there is diversity - not a one size fits all approach required.
Questions raised
How will the standard benefit growers?
How can we collaborate with growers rather than a top-down approach?
Memorable moment
I particularly enjoyed the panel: Farm Perspectives, A Discussion on Implementation in Local Contexts.
Australian grower Scott Morgan shared how he has implemented solar-powered irrigation and how he has improved water efficiency on farm. Scott was asked what success looks like to him, to which he shared two big moments:
The groundwater on his property is now higher than it was 20 years ago!
How a colony of bees had chosen his land to call home. Now a beekeeper, Scott likened the colony to human-kind. We are all dependent on each other.
Scott spoke of the importance of cotton variety selection and access to experts via Cotton Info; a reminder of the great resources, wealth of knowledge and collaborative nature of the Australian cotton industry.
Todd Straley from the United States spoke on how he has been able to create a circular loop, locally supplying seed to dairies, and utilising fertilizer from this same dairy. He also provided personal insights as a grower. Growers are price takers. This creates a lot of stress. It is so important that I don’t communicate this stress to my children and to those that work with me.
I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the rich discussions at The Textile Exchange Cotton Round Table in Amsterdam. I personally enjoyed sharing with others why I source Australian cotton for my designs and what I love about our local industry. I found people were curious as to my involvement and thoughts on varying aspects of the definition and standard.
A reoccuring conversation at the Round Table was how great it would be for more growers to participate and be involved in this process, your thoughts and knowledge is greatly appreciated.
If you would like to get involved be sure to register for the Cotton Virtual Global Summit, July 6. Register →
Photos, art & words: Emma Bond
