First Better Cotton certification issued in India under the new Chain of Custody Certification Scheme
Preferred by Nature is now authorised to provide Chain of Custody (CoC) certification under Better Cotton’s newly launched scheme. The first company certified by us under this programme is UB Cotton Pvt. Ltd., a Mumbai-based trader, marking a new step forward in delivering independently verified sustainable cotton.
We previously conducted several audits under Better Cotton’s Licensing Scheme, where all auditing processes and certification decisions were overseen by Better Cotton.
The new Better Cotton scheme represents a shift from that licensing model, where third parties conducted audits, but certification remained under Better Cotton’s control, to a fully independent certification system. Responsibility for both auditing and certification now lies with accredited third-party certification bodies.
This evolution enhances transparency and credibility throughout the supply chain and supports alignment with global regulatory frameworks, such as the EU Green Transition Directive, which aims to prevent misleading sustainability claims.
“This certification is a positive step towards strengthening responsible sourcing practices in the cotton sector. It reflects growing interest in independent verification and the shift towards greater supply chain accountability.”
Sharad Sood
Agriculture Specialist at Preferred by Nature.
“By supporting sustainable practices, this certification brings benefits to cotton-growing communities and contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of cotton production,” added Sharad.
Under this new framework, independent third-party certification bodies (CBs) accredited to ISO 17065 are authorised to conduct audits and make certification decisions autonomously. This structure ensures that audits are conducted impartially, with integrity, and in accordance with globally accepted best practices.
UB Cotton Pvt. Ltd. becomes the first certified company
UB Cotton Pvt. Ltd. is the first company to be certified by Preferred by Nature under Better Cotton’s new Chain of Custody Certification Scheme.
Founded in 2002 as a spin-off from U.B. Steels, a family-owned firm established in 1983, UB Cotton Pvt. Ltd. has built a reputation for responsible sourcing and international trade.
Previously licensed to trade Better Cotton under the mass-balance system, UB Cotton sought to transition towards trading segregated Better Cotton. This shift required independent third-party certification under the new scheme.
“Gaining certification under Better Cotton’s new scheme confirms our dedication and commitment to sustainability. This achievement allows us to deliver responsibly sourced cotton to global markets while reinforcing trust among our stakeholders.”
Ravi Thakkar
Director at UB Cotton Pvt. Ltd.
Strengthening the future of sustainable cotton
UB Cotton’s certification is an encouraging step towards greater transparency and accountability in the cotton trade. As more companies consider independent verification, the structured certification model has the potential to support responsible sourcing practices and contribute to a more sustainable industry.
Preferred by Nature is committed to supporting businesses on their journey towards sustainability by offering credible certification solutions that meet evolving global standards.
Contact us for more information about Better Cotton certification or to learn how Preferred by Nature can support your sustainability goals.
