The German sustainability assessment platform, Siegelklarheit, has officially granted Cotton made in Africa its highest possible “Excellent” rating. This recognition underscores the standard’s commitment to sustainable cotton production, environmental protection, and social responsibility standards. The announcement follows a comprehensive update to the Siegelklarheit platform, which has provided consumer guidance on sustainability labels since 2015.
Recognition for Sustainable Cotton Production and Performance
The new CmiA Sustainable Cotton Rating reflects a shift in the platform’s evaluation structure, moving from a two-tier system to a more nuanced five-level rating. This change allows for greater differentiation between various sustainability standards. Cotton made in Africa was assessed using the Sustainability Standards Comparison Tool (SSCT), a framework developed by over 200 experts from government, academia, and industry. The framework is based on internationally recognized agreements, including those of the International Labour Organization.
In the assessment, Cotton made in Africa achieved a perfect 100% score in the categories of credibility and social responsibility standards. It also secured an 88% score in the environmental category. These results solidify the CmiA Sustainable Cotton Rating as one of the top-performing labels currently reviewed by the platform. Previously, the initiative had been recognized as a “Very good choice,” with this Excellent Siegelklarheit rating reflecting the more detailed evaluation methodology now in place.
The Role of the Aid by Trade Foundation in Global Supply Chains
Founded in 2005 by the Hamburg-based Aid by Trade Foundation, the initiative works to bridge the gap between smallholder farmers and global textile supply chains. By promoting sustainable cotton production, the Aid by Trade Foundation aims to improve local livelihoods while protecting the environment. Beyond farming practices, the initiative supports improved conditions in ginneries and invests in community projects focused on education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment.
The Siegelklarheit rating is operated by Verbraucherzentrale NRW and receives funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, with support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit. With this latest Siegelklarheit rating, the standard continues its mission of fostering transparency and ethical practices within the global textile industry. The Aid by Trade Foundation also manages other programs, including the Regenerative Cotton Standard and The Good Cashmere Standard, to support raw material production worldwide.
