By Jamie Martin
The U.S. cotton industry has expressed disappointment in the recent report released by the Make America Healthy Again Commission. Industry leaders argue that the report overlooks key facts about modern pesticide use and cotton’s role in sustainable agriculture.
For decades, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has conducted thorough reviews of pesticides, removing any deemed unsafe. The products currently used by cotton growers have passed repeated evaluations to ensure safety for farmers, consumers, and the environment.
“Cotton producers have made significant strides in conscientious pesticide usage,” said cotton producer and NCC Chairman, Patrick Johnson. “Crop protection tools such as glyphosate are vital for the continued sustainability of family farms here in the U.S.”
Johnson highlighted the environmental advantage of cotton over synthetic materials. “Cotton growers produce a natural fiber that is a healthy alternative to synthetic microfibers such as polyester. It is unfortunate that the Commission focused more on products that are known to be safe rather than on hazards such as microplastics, shed from synthetic clothing, that our children breathe.”
He concluded by urging policymakers to prioritize scientific evidence and ensure cotton has representation in future decisions.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-alexeyrumyantsev
Categories: National