Intertek's Better Cotton auditing services are described as serving as a key support system for various segments of the supply chain.
These include farmers, ginners, merchants, middlemen, traders, mills, manufacturers, sourcing agents, retailers, and brands involved in cotton procurement or engaged in fulfilling Better Cotton Mass Balance orders.
The Better Cotton Chain of Custody standard is a framework aimed at capturing an extensive spectrum of route-to-market data. It enables brands to track their cotton products from their origin countries to the final clothing rail.
"We are pleased to extend our services in sustainability and ethical sourcing auditing to include Better Cotton’s Chain of Custody audits and verification," said Calin Moldovean, president of Intertek business assurance.
“Through our Better Cotton auditing services, we aim to empower all stakeholders throughout the cotton supply chain to achieve the highest standards of production and sourcing of ethical, traceable and sustainable cotton. This commitment aligns with our mission to bring quality, safety and sustainability to life, ensuring our partners benefit from our science-based and forward-thinking auditing experience."
Intertek stated that its approach extends beyond conventional audits, prioritising capacity building and continual improvement within the dynamic cotton industry.
Leveraging its extensive experience in sustainability and traceability audits, the company claims to empower producers, suppliers, manufacturers, brands, and retailers to meet the stringent requirements of the Better Cotton Chain of Custody standard.
“By partnering with Better Cotton, we are helping to foster transparency and trust from farm to final product. This commitment helps to bolster consumer and retailer confidence, reinforcing our mission to advance responsible practices in the cotton industry,” added Nellie Cunningham, Intertek global programme manager.
