Luxury group Kering introduces 100 percent traceable cotton

Luxury group Kering is kicking off its new supply chain transparency
initiative by introducing a new cotton that is 100 percent scientifically
traceable. The move comes in partnership with Albini Group, Supima, and
Oritain, and aims to use forensic science and statistical analysis to
create a more sustainable business model for the company.

The tracing process involves using forensic science and statistical
analysis to inspect the naturally-occurring chemical properties of the
cotton’s fibre. By doing this, a unique chemical fingerprint is created
which traces the cotton back to the field in which it was grown. The
chemical fingerprint can then be checked at every stage of the cotton’s
processing to verify that it hasn’t been tampered with.

The introduction of the new cotton by Kering is a step towards sourcing
a more transparent cotton supply chain. Commenting on the announcement in a
statement, Cecilia Takayama, director of the materials innovation lab at
Kering, said: “At Kering, we are focused on sustainable raw material
sourcing and this innovative technology for our organic cotton supply chain
will enable our Materials Innovation Lab greater visibility to verify
farming best practices and fibre quality; ensure integrity within the
supply chain; and guarantee alignment with our Kering Standards.”

The innovative move is a step closer for Kering to its goal of achieving
100 percent traceability in its overall supply chain by 2025. Kering’s
Environmental Profiting and Loss accounting analysis predicts that the
impact of organic cotton’s on the environment is 80 percent less than
conventional cotton.