India leads with 5,770,000 metric tonnes annually. United States produces 3,999,000 tonnes, with Texas leading at 45%. China produces 3,500,000 tonnes, employing 10 million people. Brazil produces 2,787,000 tonnes, with central states being main producers. Pakistan produces 1,655,000 tonnes, using 97% of Indus River water
BCI stands for Better Cotton Initiative promoting sustainable cotton production. Initiative focuses on reducing chemicals, water stewardship and fair labor. BCI doesn't focus on organic cotton but makes standard production more sustainable
BCI cotton is grown under Better Cotton Initiative's sustainability standards. BCI is a non-profit organization promoting sustainable cotton production worldwide. BCI accounted for 22% of global cotton production in 2020
Conventional cotton production is highly chemical-intensive. Chemicals harm air, water, soil and human health. Thousands of farmers die annually from chemical exposure
Agriculture occupies 75% of workforce and contributes 15% to GDP. Only 5% of land is irrigated, relying on rain-fed agriculture. Senegal is net food importer, especially rice (75% of cereal imports)
Organic cotton is grown without synthetic chemicals in subtropical countries. USDA National Organic Program determines allowed practices in the US. Organic certification prohibits genetically modified cotton varieties