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Did you know?
U.S. cotton farmers have been using innovative techniques to assure sustainability on their farms for decades. Did you know that since 1985, U.S. cotton production has:
While that’s impressive, we know there’s still work to be done.
We’re setting a new standard in sustainably grown cotton.
We’re committed to providing natural cotton fibers that are sustainable and traceable for people and the planet.
When you see the Trust Protocol verification stamp, you can feel confident knowing that the cotton comes from a program with social and environmental integrity.
Data-powered
The Trust Protocol is grounded in science-based measurements that track six key metrics — land use, soil carbon, water management, soil loss, greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency. This data is shared directly with our farmers who can use this information to make adjustments in the field in order to improve their environmental footprint.
Data-powered
Land use
Land is a finite resource. Farmers have to protect it for future generations, while maintaining productivity.
Data-powered
Soil carbon
A key indicator of soil health, supporting water infiltration, crop productivity, and nutrient holding.
Data-powered
Water management
Optimizing every last drop, growers track and map water needs throughout the fields.
Data-powered
Soil loss
It takes 500 years to create 1 inch of topsoil. If not properly cared for, soil can be washed away by rain or blown away by wind.
Data-powered
Greenhouse gas emissions
Sustainable growing practices decrease emissions and fertilizer use while increasing biodiversity.
Data-powered
Energy efficiency
Energy use is monitored throughout the crop production cycle to continuously improve.
21st century technology & innovation
While our farmers are using environmental technologies directly in the field to improve their sustainability practices, we’ve created a system that utilizes blockchain technology to create the world’s first traceable cotton fiber.
“The Trust Protocol allows everyone to see where and how their cotton is made. With third party verification, we’re able to be transparent about the growing process.”
Aaron Barcellos, Trust Protocol farmer, California
How cotton is grown matters
Our Protocol Cotton growers are measuring and improving their environmental footprint by utilizing technology such as
drones, GPS auto-steer tractor systems, and sensor-driven precision agriculture, along with
sustainable growing methods like minimal tillage and winter cover crops.
Where cotton has been matters
From farms to fiber, we track our cotton at every stage of production, so you know exactly where it comes from.
Where cotton has been matters
From farms to fiber, we track our cotton at every stage of production, so you know exactly where it comes from.
Where cotton has been matters
From farms to fiber, we track our cotton at every stage of production, so you know exactly where it comes from.
Where cotton has been matters
From farms to fiber, we track our cotton at every stage of production, so you know exactly where it comes from.
Where cotton has been matters
From farms to fiber, we track our cotton at every stage of production, so you know exactly where it comes from.
Built on Blockchain
The Trust Protocol uses blockchain technology to record and verify every movement of cotton fiber through the entire cotton supply chain, from raw materials to ready-for-purchase products.
“We take a real interest in our employees, in their health, in their environment because they’re like family. Our farm exceeds minimum wage requirements, pay time and a half, and provide retirement plans.”
John Lindamood,
Trust Protocol farmer, Tennessee
Why principles matter
Our standards are high because we know yours are too. The Trust Protocol believes employees should always be treated fairly and paid fairly. That’s why farms must meet our specific criteria regarding the safety and well-being of their workers before they can join.
“We’re farmers. We not only farm the land, but we work with the habitat and the ecosystem to keep us all sustainable. If we don’t look after the land, then it won’t look after us.”
Nick McMichen, Trust Protocol farmer, Georgia and Alabama
Why the origin matters
Harvested annually, cotton starts as a seed and is grown by mother nature (with a little help
from our farmers). As a natural, 100% biodegradable fiber, Trust Protocol cotton goes one-step
further by aiming to provide net positive environmental outcomes rather than relying on neutral
impact. In order to do that, our farmers focus on regenerative agriculture practices that build
and nourish our ecosystem.
From dirt to shirt… and back again.
Unlike synthetic fibers, cotton is a plant. This means it safely degrades back to where it originated from—the ground.
Partners
Collaboration is key to preserving and protecting our planet.
Our members and partners include farmers, gins, merchandizers, mills, manufacturers, brands, retailers, and industry and non-governmental organizations. We are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, recognized by Textile Exchange and Forum for the Future, and part of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.
Learn more about the Trust Protocol at https://trustuscotton.org/