Launched in 2020, the Trust Protocol was designed to set a new standard in more sustainably grown cotton. Producers enrolled in the Trust Protocol are eligible to participate in the Climate Smart Cotton Program, which will provide technical and financial assistance to 1,650 U.S. cotton farmers with acres available for Climate Smart practice changes. Growers also receive personalized data that can be used to help improve their sustainability efforts and yield, as well as gain closer communication with their end customer.

“Sustainably grown cotton that is backed by verified data and measurable outcomes is highly sought after by brands and retailers,” said Ted Schneider, a Trust Protocol grower from Louisiana. “While grower participation in the program has doubled since the program’s pilot year, we need more cotton growers to enroll and complete their data entry before the deadline so we can meet the increased demand for sustainably grown U.S. cotton.”

The Trust Protocol has welcomed more than 1,100 brand, retailer, mill and manufacturer members, including Levi Strauss & Co., Old Navy, Gap, American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., and J.Crew.

With increased scrutiny on sustainability, the program provides access to more sustainably grown cotton for brands and retailers, and science based, data-led assurances that consumers can have confidence in — something that has been lacking in the industry to date.