Sustainability in Greek Cotton
In its long history, cotton has been associated with colonialism, slaves and environmental burden. But his demand for stylish and comfortable clothes never diminished. Now the cotton industry follows the principles of Sustainability. Thirteen of the world's largest garment industries have recently signed a 100% cotton pact that uses sustainability by 2025 under the auspices of the Prince of Wales.
The cultivation of cotton in Greece is described by Pausanias in the 2nd century BC. Nowadays, Greece is at the forefront of cotton production in Europe and the top twelve of the world. Cotton production is of great national importance for our country and accounts for over 8% of total agricultural income. Although cotton is mainly used for cloth, the cotton seed remaining after processing is used in the production of animal feed.
With ISCC certification, producers are demonstrating the sustainability of their cultivation and can target all markets such as biofuels, food, feed and clothing. Environmental and Social Sustainability Criteria are set at a high level with mandatory traceability in the supply chain and the calculation of greenhouse gas emissions.
Since 2013, EUROCERT has been the 1st and only Greek biofuel certification organization under Directive 2009/28 / EC to promote the use of renewable energy and is one of the 30 worldwide bodies that have been recognized by the ISCC for this specific certification. In 2014, Eurocert managed to integrate cotton into the recognized ISCC product list, paving the way for certifying the sustainability of cottonseed biodiesel, a product of particular importance to the domestic market.
Nikos Koulas, Coordinator of EUROCERT's Inspector, explains: "The cotton in Greece is mainly grown by small producers with an average of 3-4 hectares. The inspections cover an alternating sample of growers annually with a minimum size equivalent to the square root of the total size. We visit the fields, talk to each grower and check his records to confirm compliance with European Union regulations on agriculture and optimal use of pesticides. We also check that no deforestation or other prohibited land use change and verify working conditions for land workers and the application of health and safety rules. "
Cotton is delivered to local industries where the fiber is separated from the seed, known as ginning. The seeds are saddened and oil is produced that is used in the food industry and biofuel production. The remaining cotton pie is used for animal feed. At the cotton processing plant, the inspector controls the greenhouse gas emission and the company's management system if it follows the ISCC Standard.
PAGGIA with four cotton ginning plants and 4,000 growers all over Greece, produces excellent fiber specifications with high technology equipment and supplies spinning materials all over the world. The cottonseed, produced, is used in margarines and frying oils, and due to its superior specialization, it provides the industry with the production of efficient biofuels.
Sotiria Giouvanaki, Director of PAGHAIA, responsible for the implementation of the ISCC, says: "Certification proves the credibility, transparency and sustainability of our company. It states that we follow best practices with minimal impact on the environment. "
Certification of Greek cotton production with the ISCC Standard is part of the Sustainability journey and responds to the call of Prince Charles and the major clothing industries that have embraced it.
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