Regenerative agriculture in apparel: What does it mean for the future of cotton production?

The concept of regenerative agriculture is being hailed as the new paradigm in sustainable supply chains. While it is predominantly food brands that have acted fastest to make significant commitments to regenerative, the future of cotton production could be based on similar practices that aim to restore, renew and replenish the environment. However, big questions still stand on definitions, processes, outcomes, and crucially what this actually looks like on the ground.

In this hour-long webinar, we took a closer look at how regenerative practices can be applied to cotton farming. We discussed:

• How regenerative apparel can be defined and how it differs from sustainable fashion
• The opportunities and challenges for brands, farmers and partners in implementing such program
• The key players in this transition and their roles in ensuring that these practices are scaled
• How to determine the impact and specific outcomes of regenerative programs

Speakers included:

• Alison Ward, CEO, CottonConnect
• Rachel Kanter Kepnes, manager of supply chain social responsibility, farms & special programs, Patagonia
• Sheetal Nischal, sustainability projects manager, Primark
• Hanna Denes, Climate+ Strategy, senior manager, Textile Exchange
• Peter Stanbury, senior associate, Innovation Forum

Facilitated by Ian Welsh, publishing director, Innovation Forum