**10. Case study successful implementation**

#### **10.1 Case study: successful integration of sustainable practices in a cotton chain**

The textile and clothing (T&C) business plays a crucial role in people's daily lives, and the products it produces are regarded as the second-most important thing that people desire. The sector has grown significantly and achieved great success over the past few decades, making it one of the most significant but also most polluting worldwide industries [80]. Significant environmental and social effects are caused by its magnitude, diversity of processes, and intricate worldwide production networks. Three natural fibers have been used by humans for at least 5000 years each: flax, wool, and cotton.

Today, 48% of all textiles are made from cotton. Only 27% of cotton is grown in rain-fed conditions globally, with irrigated fields accounting for the majority (73%). According to [81], irrigated cotton has an average output of 845 kg per hectare, and rain-fed cotton has an average yield of 391 kg per hectare. 75% of the total global production of cotton is produced by the six biggest cotton-producing nations (China, USA, India, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkey). Over the past 40 years, the contemporary cotton business has made substantial environmental progress, but it is not letting up.

Researchers and scientists work to create innovative techniques that will enable cotton to be grown, processed and manufactured more effectively and with less environmental impact. The cotton industry will be able to fulfill the demands for productivity and profit while identifying and implementing innovative technologies and practices without sacrificing the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

#### **10.2 Collaboration among stakeholders**

Businesses began signing up for these certification programs to expand their market share and take advantage of fresh opportunities and trends. At the same time, these programs give companies the chance to have more control over their supply chains, ensuring safety and quality requirements while lowering manufacturing costs [82]. Positive side effects of certification included improved reputation and confidence among consumers and other stakeholders.

According to Bolwig *et al*. [83], certification schemes and the methods employed to implement them determine the extent to which these desired beneficial results are realized. In order to enhance the environmental and social circumstances of production operations in developing nations, sustainable chain governance systems have emerged as a result of collaboration between various market and non-market players [84].

## **10.3 Training**

Training farmers helps them become more productive, more able to meet the quality standards demanded by international supply chains, and more capable of producing food.
