Sustainable Cotton Program Expands Rapidly
In 2025, the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol has marked its sixth consecutive year of growth, adding more acres and farmer participation than ever before. The program now includes 2.58 million planted acres—an 18% increase—and 1,512 growers, up 14% from 2024.
This steady growth comes during a time of economic pressure, changing weather, and market uncertainties. Farmers in the program benefit from access to reliable data, helping them reduce environmental impact and increase farming efficiency.
By using this information, growers can improve sustainability, track their performance, and show responsible farming practices through verified reporting systems.
“We are proud of the continued increase in grower participation in the Trust Protocol, the voluntary sustainability program for U.S. Cotton, which means greater sourcing opportunities for brands and retailers around the world,” said Daren Abney, Executive Director of the Trust Protocol.
Through its traceable supply chain, the Protocol connects cotton from field to finished product. Over 2,500 mills and manufacturers now participate, along with more than 45 international brands, such as Urban Outfitters, J.Crew, and Levi’s.
The Trust Protocol works to improve six sustainability areas: soil health, land use, water use, energy, emissions, and fiber quality. Its third-party verification ensures farmers’ practices meet the growing global demand for responsible and traceable cotton.
The continued expansion confirms that sustainable cotton farming is gaining strong support across the U.S., positioning American growers as leaders in environmentally sound agriculture.