Ralph Lauren launches regenerative cotton program

The Ralph Lauren Foundation and the Soil Health Institute have launched a regenerative cotton program.

With the goal of supporting long-term sustainable cotton production in the United States, the program intends to remove one million tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by 2026. The United States Renewable Cotton Fund (USRCF) is funded by an endowment. $5 million from the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation. The initiative intends to educate and encourage farmers to use regenerative farming methods, such as crop and no-till.

With the use of cotton making up about 80% of Ralph Lauren’s materials, the USRCF funding is part of the Global Citizen and Sustainability goals. The brand has committed to sustainable sourcing of 100% of its key ingredients by 2025.

“Partnering with scale solutions to build community resilience are effective ways to make a positive impact,” said Roseann Lynch, head of the Ralph Lauren Corporate Foundation and chief human resources officer of Ralph Lauren. to everyone’s life.

The program also aims to ensure that farmers increase their profits and create lasting value when implementing sustainable practices. Initially starting in Arkansas, Texas, Mississippi and Georgia, USRCF hopes to later expand to Alabama, North Carolina, Missouri, California and Oklahoma. Nine states represent 85% of US cotton production.

“Achieving widespread environmental benefits from regenerative agriculture means we must understand the needs and experiences of the crop,” said USRCF chief scientific officer and chief scientist, Dr. Christine Morgan. farmers when applying these methods.

Improvements in soil health and carbon sequestration will be measured using a method developed by the Soil Health Institute. USRCF will also establish mentoring programs for the next generation of agricultural scientists and leaders, and engage with Historically Black Universities and Colleges to increase their capacity to grow. access to careers in decision-making positions in the U.S. agricultural industry.