Australia’s cotton growers lead the world in environmental best practice for cotton production. Our growers are the most water-use efficient, produce three times the world average yields, operate under a sophisticated environmental management system, have reduced chemical use by over 90% and lead the world in Integrated Pest Management.
Australia produces a high quality, natural fibre in high demand on the world market. The industry’s environmental commitment starts with millions of dollars invested every year in research, development and extension to improve cotton production practices and is underpinned by a comprehensive, practical environmental management system called Best Management Practices (BMP).
This section explores the issues, the facts and the practical ways that the modern Australian cotton industry is remaining viable, efficient and sustainable in a competitive world market.
“In recent years the cotton industry has made significant steps to address, and rectify its impacts on the environment as evidenced by the most recent environmental audit, and the wider adoption of Best Management Practices environmental management system. The conservation movement must acknowledge, encourage and support the cotton industry’s clear intention to achieve ecologically sustainable production.”
Dr Graeme Hamilton
CEO Birds Australia
(from Foreword of Birds on Cotton Farms Guide)
