In a world where fashion stands as the third most polluting industry, with some estimating that it is responsible for nearly 10% of our annual carbon footprint, the imperative for sustainability in the apparel sector has never been clearer. As sustainability leaders in the fashion and apparel industry strive to address this pressing issue, they are increasingly turning to innovative solutions to reduce their environmental impact. One solution gaining traction is the integration of soil carbon credits into their sustainability portfolios to diversify their approach to sustainability outcomes.

Here are three reasons why leading apparel companies are diversifying their sustainability portfolios with soil carbon credits:

1. Soil carbon credits remove CO2 emissions

Apparel companies are acutely aware of the need to address their environmental impact and support the communities within their supply chains. While they work to reduce the emissions in their own supply chains, sustainability officers also recognize the value of investing in carbon removal credits. Unlike other forms of offsetting, such as afforestation avoidance credits, soil carbon credits offer a unique opportunity to actively remove CO2 from the atmosphere while simultaneously supporting the agricultural communities within their own supply chains. By investing in soil carbon credits, apparel companies can directly benefit the farmers who supply their raw materials.

2. Soil carbon projects support indigenous and marginalized farmers

Boomitra is committed to advancing climate justice for marginalized and vulnerable farmers in the Global South, many of whom are part of the apparel industry supply chains.  It is estimated that nearly 100 million rural households – 90% of them in lower income countries – are directly engaged in cotton production, relying on it for their income. Through our on-the-ground partners, Boomitra enables farmers to adopt regenerative agriculture practices that sequester carbon in the soil. By participating in carbon markets, these farmers gain access to additional revenue streams from carbon credits that support their livelihoods. Sustainability officers recognize the dual impact of investing in soil carbon credits: mitigating climate change while strengthening the resilience and prosperity of the farmers who form the backbone of their supply chains.

Read more about how Boomitra is making a difference in the lives of cotton farmers like Harshadbhai Jagdishbhai Thakrani.

3. Soil carbon credits generate co-benefits for communities in the apparel supply chain

Investing in soil carbon credits provides a range of co-benefits as well. By adopting regenerative agriculture practices, farmers can increase crop yields, improve soil health, and enhance biodiversity on their land. Moreover, the revenue generated from carbon finance allows farmers to reinvest in their lands and communities, fostering economic resilience and food security which creates lasting positive impacts for farmers and ecosystems.

Soil carbon credits represent a strategic addition to the toolkit of sustainability officers in the apparel industry, offering a pathway to mitigate climate change while supporting the farmers within their supply chains. With global apparel consumption projected to rise by 63% by 2030, investing in projects that promote regenerative agriculture and soil health becomes increasingly important. By doing so, apparel companies can contribute to creating a more sustainable and resilient future for both the planet and the communities they serve.

Ready to take the next step? Talk to our team to learn more.

James Cahalin

Director - Carbon Credits