Helping organisations demonstrate responsible sourcing of cotton and alignment with Better Cotton’s mission to improve sustainability in cotton production.
What is BCI?
Established in 2005, the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a global non-profit organisation working to improve the sustainability of cotton production worldwide. BCI provides training to cotton farmers on sustainable agricultural practices and offers consumers confidence that the cotton they purchase is responsibly sourced.
BCI’s goal is to transform the cotton industry by integrating sustainability throughout the supply chain and fostering traceability and transparency. The organisation works with farmers, suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers to bring sustainably produced cotton to the global market.
The Better Cotton Standard outlines criteria for sustainable cotton production. The standard addresses key areas such as water management, biodiversity, soil health, and the rights of workers and farmers.
Preferred by Nature is an approved BCI certification body, authorised to conduct Chain of Custody audits globally.
Certification options
Preferred by Nature offers the following BCI certification option:
Chain of Custody certification
This certification tracks the movement of Better Cotton from farm to finished product. It ensures the cotton is traceable through all stages of the supply chain to promote transparency and accountability.
For ginners, spinners, traders, manufacturers and retailers, the Chain of Custody Certification verifies that your systems support the proper handling and traceability of Better Cotton. The Better Cotton Chain of Custody Guidelines define two traceability models – Mass Balance and Segregation – and set out requirements for physical handling, documentation and volume reconciliation.
6 benefits of choosing BCI certification
Credibility and recognition: Gain recognition as a leader in sustainable cotton production.
Improved cotton production: Adopt sustainable practices that enhance yield and reduce environmental impact.
Supporting farmers and communities: Contribute to better livelihoods and working conditions for farmers and farm workers.
Traceability and transparency: Ensure full traceability of cotton through the supply chain, from farm to finished product.
Access to sustainable markets: Appeal to a growing base of consumers who prioritise ethically sourced products.
- Ongoing improvement: Regular audits and evaluations ensure continuous progress in sustainable practices.
BCI certification process
The BCI certification process is designed to guide organisations through a clear and manageable pathway. Here’s a breakdown:
Step 1: Application process
Complete the application to begin the certification process. This will help define your needs and the scope of certification required.Step 2: Certification preparation
You’ll need to implement the Better Cotton Standard at your operation. This may involve staff training, establishing systems for traceability, and preparing necessary documentation.Step 3: Assessments
An independent audit will be carried out to assess whether your operations meet Better Cotton’s standards. This includes reviews of farming practices, supply chain processes, and environmental impact.Step 4: Certification decision
After the audit, you will receive a report outlining your compliance. Non-conformities must be addressed before certification is granted.Step 5: Earning certificate
Once approved, you will receive your Better Cotton certification. Your certification will be valid for a set period, after which you will undergo another audit to ensure ongoing compliance.
Better Cotton Chain of Custody Standard
The Chain of Custody Standard ensures that cotton can be traced through the entire supply chain. It allows organisations to make credible claims about their use of Better Cotton and provides consumers with transparency.
Get in contact with us
Our experts are ready to support you on your sustainability journey.
