By Julie Tomascik
Editor

Cotton is woven into the state and national economies, and on World Cotton Day, the focus is on the crop’s positive impact and importance as a global commodity.

World Cotton Day, recognized annually on Oct. 7, recognizes cotton’s value as both a fiber and food crop, and it celebrates the millions of families who depend on the industry for their livelihood.

The theme, “Cotton for Good,” promotes the environmental, social and economic benefits of the natural fiber and aims to dispel misconceptions about its production.

In Texas, cotton and cottonseed contribute about $2.8 billion annually to the economy.

“Cotton and cottonseed rank third in Texas agricultural commodities in terms of market value,” said Brant Wilbourn, Texas Farm Bureau associate director of Commodity and Regulatory Activities. “Texas leads the nation in cotton production, supporting rural communities and other agribusinesses, as well as contributing heavily to U.S. exports.”

The natural fiber is suited for arid climates and is grown in over 70 countries.

Cotton isn’t just a fiber crop, though. It’s also a food crop.

“Cottonseed oil is used as a cooking oil for human consumption, and the seed, shell and oil can also be used as feed for livestock,” Wilbourn said.

The cotton industry continues to focus on sustainability.

American cotton farmers have adopted precision agricultural techniques and developed processes to document and verify the sustainability practices already incorporated into their farms.

The industry established the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, a farm level, science-based program and traceability platform. Farmers gain data-driven insights to improve their environmental footprint, while brands gain verifiable data and robust traceability to meet stakeholder expectations and build trust.

“That traceability builds trust with consumers and keeps cotton a strong, reliable choice in the global economy,” Wilbourn said.

World Cotton Day gives exposure to cotton and all stakeholders involved in production, transformation and trade. It also seeks new collaborations with the private sector and investors for cotton-related industries and production in developing countries. The day also promotes technological advances, as well as further research and development of cotton.

The initiative was first launched in 2019. Learn more at worldcottonday.com.

Click here to see how cotton is harvested on Texas farms.

And test your cotton knowledge with this TFB Cotton Connection publication.