At one time the muslin of Bangladesh was world famous. The royal saree “muslin” made in this country was world famous. This muslin cotton was produced in this country. During the British rule, that cotton and muslin was lost in time. At present, the textile and garment sector is the main export and foreign exchange earning sector of Bangladesh.
The year 2009 was assigned the International Year of Natural Fibres by the UN. Natural fibre industries employ millions of people all over the world, especially in developing countries. As the major non-food commodity, natural fibres and their products are processed in many small and large industries and consumers all over the world profit from the provided products.
Cotton is produced all over the world and one single tonne of cotton provides almost one year-round employment for five people on average. Cotton crop is perfectly suited for regions with an arid climate. Overall, cotton occupies just 2.1 percent of the world’s arable land and yet meets 27 percent cent of the world’s textile sector. While cotton fibre is used in textiles and clothing apparel, food products like edible oil are obtained from cotton and its seed is used as animal feed.
Cotton is used by millions every single day across the world and the demand for cotton is expected to rise over the coming years. This hike in demand has increased the need for sustainable cotton. Ways to produce cotton while caring for the environment are at the forefront of conversations in the drive for sustainability. Conventional cotton production currently accounts for 18 percent of worldwide pesticide use and producers of cotton are being poisoned by heavy pesticide use. Sustainable cotton production is the solution to these issues. It reduces the use of hazardous chemicals, uses less water, and reduces poverty for cotton farmers.
Government and other policymakers should develop positive support to boost up cotton production. World Cotton Day, 2025 is an opportunity to show the positive impact on cotton which will continued impact in the future and convince the international community to join the celebration. It plays a vital role in the national economy of different countries since cotton benefits more than 100 million families in over 75 countries of the world. World Cotton Day serves as a key opportunity to spread knowledge and showcase cotton-related activities and products. So, the World Cotton Day 2025 is an excellent opportunity to renew our commitment to enhancing the sustainability of the cotton sector and bring it to the forefront of the global agenda.
Writer: Soil Nutrition and Water Management Specialist
Cotton Development Board (HQ), Tula Bhaban, Farmgate, Dhaka
