The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) has released a comprehensive report [1] focusing on soil health in cotton farming methods. The report highlights the critical role of healthy soils in enhancing cotton productivity and sustainability, especially in the face of climate change.
The report emphasized the importance of regenerative agricultural practices, such as cover cropping and reduced tillage, improving soil structure and retaining moisture. These practices make crops more resilient to drought and sequester carbon from the atmosphere, mitigating climate change.
ICAC’s report also discusses the challenges small-holder cotton farmers face in regions like Africa and Asia, where frequent droughts and rising temperatures are causing crop failures. The report advocates for support through training, improved access to seeds and other inputs, market connectivity, and financial resources to empower farmers and promote sustainable practices.
The report underscores the need for a multifaceted, systems-based approach to address the impacts of climate change on cotton production. By implementing resilience-enhancing strategies early on, farmers can improve their livelihoods and contribute to environmental stewardship.
Additionally, the report highlights the use of traditional composting methods [2], such as biochar (a charcoal intended for organic use in soil to improve soil structure), bokashi (A “composting method” where the input matter is fermented by specialist bacteria, not decomposed to provide nutrients), and jeevamrit ( An organic fertilizer prepared from fermenting the mixture of cow/buffalo dung and urine, promotes microbial diversity), which have shown promising results in providing nutrient to the plants, promoting healthy soil and more productive cotton farming.
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[2] How traditional composting methods promote healthy soil and more productive, climate-friendly cotton farming
