ICAC Study Analyzes Global Cotton Water Footprint During 2020-2024

A comprehensive study conducted by Dr Keshav R. Kranthi, Chief Scientist at the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), has shed light on the global water footprint of cotton cultivation between 2020 and 2024. The study, which covers 271 cotton-growing regions across 38 major cotton-producing countries, provides crucial insights into water consumption, irrigation efficiency and sustainability in cotton farming.

Key Findings of the Study
The study reports that during the 2020-2024 period, the global cotton cultivation area averaged 31.6 million hectares, with approximately 44% of the area under irrigation. Global cotton production during this period stood at an average of 25.38 million tonnes, with a yield of 803 kg per hectare.

A significant highlight of the study is the estimation of the water footprint for cotton production. On an average, producing one kilogramme of cotton lint required 8,927 litres of water, with:

• 6,582 litres sourced from rainfall (green water footprint)
• 2,346 litres from irrigation (blue water footprint)

The global cotton sector was found to account for only 2.76% of total irrigation water usage in agriculture, despite occupying 2.92% of the world’s arable land under temporary crops. This indicates that while cotton is a water-intensive crop, its share of irrigation water usage in global agriculture remains proportionate.

Water Consumption and Irrigation Efficiency
The study calculated that cotton cultivation required 226.4 trillion litres of water annually, comprising:

• 9 trillion litres from effective rainfall
• 5 trillion litres from irrigation water

The report highlights varying irrigation efficiencies across different cotton-producing regions. Many areas tend to apply excessive irrigation water, leading to inefficiencies in water use. The study underscores the importance of optimizing irrigation techniques, as well as the need for improved water conservation strategies.

Towards More Sustainable Cotton Farming
With growing concerns over water scarcity and climate change, the study emphasizes the need for:

• Precision irrigation techniques such as drip and sprinkler systems to improve water-use efficiency.
• Rainwater conservation strategies to reduce dependence on irrigation.
• Better water management policies to ensure sustainable cotton production in the long run.

This research serves as a benchmark for policymakers, researchers and industry stakeholders, helping them formulate strategies to enhance water sustainability in global cotton farming. By adopting improved water management practices, the cotton industry can contribute to long-term environmental and economic sustainability, while maintaining production efficiency.