Retailer Marks & Spencer has teamed up with sustainability innovation provider Pilio on an initiative to promote access to clean energy and strengthen biodiversity across cotton growing communities in India.
The Affordable Clean Environment (ACE) cotton programme, which forms part of M&S’ Plan A sustainability strategy, builds on the retailer’s previous efforts to source more responsible cotton, with 100% of the cotton in M&S clothing coming from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), recycled, or organic sources since 2019.
‘Fundamental to how we do business’
“At M&S, sourcing cotton with care is fundamental to how we do business, and today 100% of the cotton in our clothing comes from more responsible sources,” commented Katharine Beacham, head of materials at M&S.
“The ACE cotton programme builds on that progress by investing in clean energy and nature positive practices that support farming communities and reduce the environmental impact of cotton production. It reflects the ambition of our sustainability programme – Plan A – to ensure our clothes are made in a way that supports people, protects nature, and contributes to a lower-carbon future.”
The ACE programme will focus on the livelihoods of cotton-growing communities, with farmers set to play a central role in decision-making, ensuring that the initiatives are developed in partnership with them.
The programme will also seek to unlock financing for both on-farm and off-farm solar technologies, helping to reduce carbon emissions associated with cotton production, as well as strengthening the long-term resilience of producer communities.
‘Holistic solution’
Pilio will work alongside the retailer to implement the programme in India.
“It is great to be working with M&S, who recognise the importance of investing in a holistic solution that improves the lives of cotton growers alongside addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss,” commented Catherine Bottrill, CEO of Pilio.
“Access to clean energy benefits strengthens the prosperity of farming communities while reducing emissions and delivering positive outcomes for biodiversity across brand supply chain.” Read more here.
