Ensuring Sustainability in the Textile Industry: CmiA’s Impact in 2023
- Fundação RESET
- Mar 2
- 2 min read
The 2023 Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA) Annual Report highlights the initiative’s efforts to promote sustainable cotton farming, improve farmer livelihoods, and increase environmental resilience across African cotton-producing regions. Through training programs, community engagement, and technological innovations, CmiA continues to shape global textile supply chains while addressing critical social, economic, and environmental challenges. The report also details the progress of The Good Cashmere Standard (GCS) and the introduction of the Regenerative Cotton Standard (RCS), both of which emphasize sustainable production practices.
Key Findings
Key Findings
CmiA has played a crucial role in expanding sustainable cotton production and supporting economic growth in Africa. In 2023, 30% of Africa’s cotton production was verified under CmiA, benefiting 900,000 small-scale farmers and producing 508,000 tonnes of sustainable cotton. Through its partnerships with over 2,700 textile companies in 54 countries, CmiA has reinforced transparent and ethical supply chains, ensuring that African cotton farmers receive fair compensation. The revenue from sustainability standards reached €8.1 million, with €6.5 million generated from private-sector partnerships, demonstrating a strong market commitment to sustainable sourcing.
CmiA has also prioritized environmental sustainability and climate resilience by promoting soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative agricultural practices. The CAR-iSMa project, implemented in Mozambique, Zambia, and Côte d’Ivoire, has introduced composting techniques and carbon capture strategies to improve land use. To further enhance sustainability, satellite-based remote sensing technology is now being used to monitor cotton fields and assess climate risks, allowing for better land and water management. Additionally, the launch of the Regenerative Cotton Standard (RCS) aims to support climate adaptation and improve environmental sustainability across the African cotton sector.
Beyond farming, CmiA has made substantial social investments to improve education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment in rural cotton-growing communities. In 2023, 142 new wells and 478 latrines were constructed, significantly improving access to clean water and sanitation. To support education, CmiA funded the construction of 128 classrooms and 67 school canteens, providing students with better learning environments and nutrition. Additionally, 90 women’s clubs were launched to enhance financial literacy, vocational training, and female entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, the Good Cashmere Standard (GCS) expanded sustainable cashmere production in Inner Mongolia, strengthening supply chain sustainability and resilience to climate challenges.
The 2023 CmiA Annual Report underscores the critical role of sustainable cotton production in fostering economic stability, environmental protection, and community well-being. By integrating climate-smart agriculture, supply chain transparency, and social development programs, CmiA has made significant progress in ensuring ethical and sustainable practices in the global textile industry. Moving forward, investing in regenerative agriculture, enhancing farmer resilience, and promoting circular economy models will be essential to scaling impact and driving long-term sustainability.
CmiA’s continued expansion of sustainable practices and social responsibility programs demonstrates its commitment to a fair, transparent, and environmentally responsible textile industry.
The Bibliography source:
RESET Foundation is committed with the The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The CmiA’s Impact in 2023 is linked to several SDGs:
The SDG's, also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that by 2030 all people enjoy peace and prosperity.
