Framework recognizes sustainable practices among growers
The U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol has introduced its Field Partner Program pilot, a new initiative designed to formally recognize regenerative practices among U.S. cotton growers. The pilot, launched for the 2025 crop year, aims to combine measurable outcomes with sustainable practices to create greater value for both growers and brand members.
The program establishes a dual framework where both practices and results are measured to provide maximum impact. It is expected to help brands and retailers access regenerative cotton while ensuring supply chain credibility and traceability.
“The Trust Protocol is built on a foundation of continuous improvement and providing a science-based approach, supported by a verification process to meet assurances for our members. This program is a direct extension of that commitment,” said Daren Abney, Executive Director of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. “There is a clear and growing demand for materials that contribute to a regenerative agricultural system. This initiative creates a formal pathway for recognizing regenerative practices at the field level, enhancing value for our growers and providing brands and retailers with the credible sourcing options they need to meet their sustainability targets.”
The pilot will also assess market demand for regenerative cotton, test bale traceability across the supply chain, and validate the program’s framework through a rigorous multi-level verification system. Input from member brands and aggregators has helped shape the pilot ahead of a larger rollout planned for 2026.
Built on the Trust Protocol’s existing infrastructure, the program uses field-level data, farm visits, and satellite imagery to verify regenerative practices. Eligibility requires growers to adopt sustainable methods in key areas such as soil health, water use, biodiversity, and reduced synthetic inputs.
Aligned with Field to Market’s regenerative agriculture guidance, this initiative provides a credible system for sustainable cotton sourcing while ensuring measurable impact at every step of the supply chain.