Cotton and Climate Change: Towards Sustainable and Resilient Production
- Fundação RESET
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
Climate change is severely impacting cotton production worldwide, particularly in Africa and Asia, where millions of smallholder farmers rely on this crucial cash crop. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and prolonged droughts are leading to crop failures, pushing farming communities into economic and food insecurity. The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) emphasizes the role of research, regenerative agriculture, and carbon-neutral farming as critical solutions to enhance cotton productivity and climate resilience.
Key Findings
1. Climate Change and Cotton Productivity
Climate variability is already affecting cotton yields, with higher temperatures accelerating crop development, reducing water use efficiency, and altering fiber quality. Research suggests that while increased CO2 levels might boost yield under well-watered conditions, extreme heat and water scarcity pose significant risks. To adapt, farmers need stress-tolerant cotton varieties, optimized irrigation techniques, and climate-smart farming practices.
2. Regenerative Agriculture and Soil Health
Regenerative agricultural practices offer a nature-based solution to climate change by enhancing soil health, increasing biodiversity, and improving moisture retention. Techniques such as cover cropping, minimal tillage, and organic mulching help sequester carbon, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and boost farm resilience. Additionally, integrating livestock grazing into cotton farming can enhance soil fertility and create diversified income sources.
3. ICAC’s Carbon-Neutral Cotton Farm Plan
ICAC proposes the Carbon Neutral Cotton Farm Plan, which envisions cotton farms as carbon sinks rather than emission sources. This plan integrates precision agriculture, renewable energy use, and advanced breeding techniques to optimize yields while minimizing environmental impact. Governments and stakeholders are urged to support cotton farmers with training, technology access, and sustainable market incentives to accelerate the transition to low-carbon cotton production.
The future of cotton farming in a changing climate depends on urgent adaptation and mitigation efforts. By embracing scientific innovation, regenerative practices, and sustainable farm management, cotton farmers can build resilience against climate threats while contributing to a more sustainable global textile industry.
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