Cotton Leaders Call for Science-Based Policy Decisions
The U.S. cotton industry has expressed disappointment with the recent report released by the Make America Healthy Again Commission.
Industry leaders argue that the report overlooks the extensive safety evaluations already conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the years.
These evaluations have led to the removal of unsafe pesticides, ensuring that current products meet strict safety standards for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
“Cotton producers have made significant strides in conscientious pesticide usage,” said cotton producer and NCC Chairman, Patrick Johnson. “Crop protection tools such as glyphosate are vital for the continued sustainability of family farms here in the U.S.”
Johnson addressed the natural benefits of cotton. “Cotton growers produce a natural fiber that is a healthy alternative to synthetic microfibers such as polyester. It is unfortunate that the Commission focused more on products that are known to be safe rather than on hazards such as microplastics, shed from synthetic clothing, that our children breathe,” he said.
Johnson emphasized the importance of science-based policymaking, stating, “We urge U.S. agencies to continue to allow sound science to guide future policy decisions, and America’s cotton industry needs a seat at the table in this effort going forward.”