Nativa explained that its partner Nafpaktos Textile Industry SA has sat alongside it every step of the way from the cultivation of the cotton to the fibre processing and yarn making, which all takes place in Greece.
The cotton was planted at the beginning of spring in Messolonghi, Greece, by a collective of Nativa farmers, including a mother and son partnership and the harvest of its debut crop is taking place on World Cotton Day (7 October).
Nativa global director Maria Estrada said: "We are so pleased to harvest our first crop of regeneratively grown cotton. From planting the seed to picking a
bumper crop of the finest quality, our goal of positively impacting the supply chain
through regenerative farming is becoming a reality thanks to our wonderful partners.”
Nativa's Regenerative Agriculture Program is said to protect the land by bettering soil quality. It also safeguards crops by ensuring soil health, and supports farmers and local communities by improving their livelihoods.
Nativa explained that these multidisciplinary efforts further result in greater water quality and increased CO2 capturing levels.
Measured over a five-year period, Nativa aims to achieve a 20% increase of organic materials (natural nutrients) in the soil through its regenerative agricultural practices. This is supported by a 25% reduction in pesticides with a goal of zero pesticide use throughout time and the effective eradication of tillage.
Nativa added that all of its cotton incorporates its blockchain technology, which digitally tracks and logs every step of the fibre's journey.
The company collaborates with premium partner brands such as Stella McCartney, Gucci, Pangaia and COS as part of its NATIVARegen programme.
