Bureau Veritas’ Solution for Better Cotton Initiative

What is Better Cotton Independent Assessment?

Retailer & Brand (R&B) members of Better Cotton (BC) must submit their cotton fiber consumptions to BC in January every 12 months, in a ‘Better Cotton Annual Cotton Consumption Submission Form’. In 2023, BC has announced that an independent assessment of RB member’s annual cotton fiber consumption measurement is mandatory from January 2024.

After submitting their cotton consumption form, R&B members must have the submitted information verified by an assessor. The assessment report then needs to be uploaded on the BC website by 31^st March.

Bureau Veritas meets the requirements set out by BC in their guidelines for Independent Assessors. We offer independent assessment services that provide an extra layer of trust and assurance.

^{Note: Only for 2024, the submission date for the assessment report has been extended to 31st July 2024.}

Our Independent Assessment service helps to verify that:

Your cotton consumption measurements are consistent and credible.
Your cotton fiber consumption calculation methodology is aligned with BC’s guidelines.
Cotton consumption figures mentioned in the submission form are calculated using the verified calculation methodology.

Soon, the Better Cotton Claims Framework will give BC supply chains access to ‘Advanced Claims’ and the ‘On-Product Mark’. An independent assessment will be a mandatory requirement to access these features.

Key Benefits You Gain Through the Independent Assessments:

Make cotton production sustainable by minimizing the environmental impact and enhancing livelihoods in the production community.
Meet the requirements for Better Cotton claims. Assure that your cotton fiber consumption measurements are consistent, reliable and aligned with BC guidelines.
Create a level playing field for all R&B members, as the volume-based fee is calculated based on cotton fiber consumption.

Our Assessment Process

During this service our auditors:

review your cotton consumption submission form, as submitted to BC,
understand your calculation methodology and compare it against BC guidelines,
evaluate differences to assess the impact on declared cotton consumption values,
work with you to identify corrective actions,
re-assess after implementation of corrective actions,
release the assessment report with a result – Successful / Unsuccessful.

What is the frequency of independent assessment?
Member Size Category	Very Small	Small	Medium	Large
Frequency of requirement for Better Cotton Membership	None	Every other year	Every year	Every year
Frequency of requirement for access to Advanced Claims and On-Product Mark	Before claim launch and then Every other year	Before claim launch and then Every other year	Before claim launch and then Every year	Before clim launch and then Every year

Why Bureau Veritas?

Bureau Veritas is a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification. We also have an unparalleled track record in supply chain sustainability solutions, with a team of highly qualified and experienced specialists who bring the following advantages.

Experience in Implementing Audit, Verification, and Traceability Programs
We’ve been at the forefront of sustainability solutions, including audits and traceability programs. Our auditors are equipped with in-depth experience and consistency for better assessment. Our superior operational & technical governance enables us to provide best-in-class service to our global clients.
Global Reach and Local Expertise
With a presence across the globe, we can efficiently conduct audits at your facilities worldwide, while maintaining an understanding of regional nuances.
Dedicated Program Manager
Throughout the program, you'll be supported by a dedicated program manager who serves as your single point of contact for streamlined communication.
Integrity is at the Heart of Everything We Do
It’s who we are, and it’s what sets us apart. We have established an independent integrity team to ensure our commitment to integrity is upheld at all times.
One-stop Solution for Sustainability & Supply Chain Management
With our extensive experience and unparalleled expertise, we support our clients through our suite of supply chain and sustainability solutions.

Cotton field background ready for harvest

Bureau Veritas’ Solution for Better Cotton

BETTER COTTON TRACEABILITY VERIFICATION

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