The Australian Cotton Industry’s Sustainability Working Group (SWG) met this week to discuss updates on natural and social capital assessments, the Cotton Industry Data Platform and revamp of the sustainability data framework.

The updated framework aims to simplify sustainability reporting for growers while meeting the needs of supply chain stakeholders. After reviewing multiple standards and guidelines over two years, the industry identified around 150 potential indicators. This was then narrowed down to 44 key farm indicators covering the most relevant environmental and social data points.

Cotton industry sustainability consultant Chris Cosgrove, who led the work, said the new framework provides clarity and consistency for farms. “If everyone is measuring the same thing from the start, sustainability will be much clearer for everyone, while providing the most important insights into the natural and human resources they rely on,” he said.

The SWG also received updates on the industry’s natural and social capital assessment, and the Cotton Industry Data Platform. The platform, currently in its build phase, is designed to centralise data management, automate reporting, and provide greater value from farm data. Beta testing is planned for the 2025–26 cotton season. The SWG, which oversees the PLANET. PEOPLE. PADDOCK. framework, includes representatives from Cotton Australia, the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), CottonInfo, myBMP, and the Australian Cotton Shippers Association.

More information on the Australian Cotton Industry Sustainability Framework is available on the new PLANET. PEOPLE. PADDOCK. website.