Soorty shows off new regenagri initiative with REEDS
Karachi denim producer Soorty has officially launched new regenerative cotton programme Soorty Regenagri Initiative (SRI) in tandem with non-profit REEDS (Rural Education and Economic Development Society), also based in Pakistan.
First initiated last year, the 5,000-acre project “isn’t just about maintaining the status quo, it’s about actively improving soil health and biodiversity”, commented SRI lead, Dr Muhammad Yousaf. “We’re proving that ecological restoration and premium cotton production are not mutually exclusive goals.”
Its 1,100 smallholder farmers are projected to yield 1,225 tonnes of cotton fibre this year alone.
The participation of female farmers is actively encouraged, since they often form the backbone of rural communities, Soorty said, circling back to its partnership with REEDS.
“With SRI, we’re not just sourcing better cotton, we’re investing in the well-being of entire communities,” underscored executive director, Ebru Debbag. “This ethical approach resonates with our customers.”
Auditors from Control Union have been engaged to ensure “the highest standards of regenerative agriculture”, whereas demonstration plots have been established to provide a hands-on learning environment.
Digital tracing technologies also track and document the fibre “from seed to fabric”.
Image: Soorty.
