World Cotton Day 7 October
Cotton, a fabric that sustains over 100 million families worldwide
Cotton is one of the most common fabrics in our wardrobes. It is comfortable, hypoallergenic, breathable, and durable.
But cotton represents so much more than just a commodity. This natural fabric is a life-changing product worldwide that sustains 28.67 million growers and benefits over 100 million families across 75 countries on 5 continents.
This means that, behind any cotton clothing, following back its trade chain, there is a personal story.
It is true that cotton is really important to developed economies, but for least-developed and developing countries, it is a safety net.
Cotton is a major source of livelihoods and incomes for many rural smallholders and laborers, including women, providing employment and income to some of the poorest rural areas in the world.
On this first official UN World Cotton Day, the United Nations wants to raise the visibility of the cotton sector and awareness of the critical role that it plays in economic development, international trade, and poverty alleviation.
The observance also aims to highlight the importance of sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
