Introduction to BCI Certification

The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a non-profit international member organization dedicated to improving cotton cultivation methods, promoting sustainable development of the cotton industry, and making good cotton a mainstream sustainable commodity worldwide. Good cotton is cotton produced by BCI recognized cotton farmers under good cotton standards or equivalent standards, which cultivates farmers' rational use of fertilizers and pesticides, forms correct operating norms, reduces damage to crops and soil, effectively utilizes water resources, and safeguards the legitimate rights and interests of workers.

BCI certification validity period and tag

BCI certification validity period

The BCI certificate is valid for 12 months and can be renewed for one year three months before the certificate expires. Suggest renewal to ensure the continuous safety and smooth connection of the entire textile chain's products.

Can you hang a hang tag

BCI members and non members are not allowed to hang tags on specific products in any form.

All participants in the supply chain can sell high-quality cotton products

Cotton Farmer - Raw Cotton (must be a good cotton project producer unit)

Cotton ginning factory - lint cotton (not required to be a BCI registered member)

Cotton Merchant - Leather Cotton (Must be a registered BCl member)

Spinning Mill - Yarn (Must be a BCI registered member)

Weaving Factory - Fabric (No need to be a BCI registered member)

Ready to wear factory - ready to wear (not required to be a BCI registered member)

The Six Principles of BCI Certification

Firstly, quality assurance. Advocate for comprehensive pest and disease control, prohibit the use of pesticides, and provide training and health protection for rural women during pesticide spraying.

Secondly, water resources. Effective utilization of water resources and protection of water sources. Although cotton is a drought tolerant crop, it is widely planted in arid areas, and how to more effectively utilize water resources is a challenge. Good cotton organizations highly appreciate the drip irrigation technology currently being vigorously promoted in China.

Thirdly, the health of cotton planting soil.

Fourthly, the protection of the ecological environment in the surrounding areas of cotton planting.

Fifth: The quality of cotton. The Chinese cotton industry is also facing the issue of cotton quality.

Sixth: Decent work. Decent work refers to protecting the interests of cotton farmers, enabling them to have sufficient income, and fully receiving social security.

The benefits of BCI certification

1. Efficient water use and protection of water resources, reducing the impact of cotton production on the environment

2. Protect natural habitats and improve the traceability of the cotton supply chain

3. Care about cotton quality, improve livelihoods and economic development in cotton producing areas

4. Protect the interests of cotton farmers and strive for decent work for the cotton farming community and farm workers

5. Emphasize soil health and ensure the credibility and sustainability of the 'Better Cotton Plan'