UNITED STATES (March 25, 2024) To advance sustainable practices within the textile industry, Soorty announced the launch of the Soorty Regenagri Initiative (SRI), a landmark project in collaboration with the Rural Education & Economic Development Society (REEDS), aimed at revitalizing agricultural ecosystems through regenerative farming. This return to harmony with nature promises to restore soil health, rebuild climate resilience, and create a sustainable legacy for generations to come.
“Regenerative agriculture isn’t just about maintaining the status quo – it’s about actively improving soil health and biodiversity. With SRI, we’re proving that ecological restoration and premium cotton production are not mutually exclusive goals”, explains the Project Lead on SRI for Soorty, Dr. Muhammad Yousaf.
At its core, SRI is driven by the philosophy that coexistence with nature can lead to more sustainable outcomes for the environment. This approach not only enhances soil health, conserves biodiversity, and bolsters climate resilience but also fosters community well-being. SRI benefits the agricultural community by promoting farmer health and facilitating ecosystem restoration which is vital for ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability, and the textile industry at large. By implementing regenerative agricultural practices, SRI focuses on enhancing soil health, conserving biodiversity, reducing chemical dependency, and promoting water conservation. With the initiative, Soorty not only seeks to produce cotton in a more environmentally friendly manner that fosters transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain but also aims to uplift local farming communities by providing them with the knowledge and resources needed for sustainable cultivation, creating a sustainable agricultural ecosystem for generations to come.
Since its inception in April 2023, the initiative has made significant progress, collaborating with over 1100 small-scale farmers on an area of approximately 5000 acres. These farmers are being taught regenerative farming practices, which not only provide immediate environmental benefits but also promise long-term prosperity and sustainability. SRI’s comprehensive approach includes establishing demonstration plots that act as living classrooms for farmers, creating a hands-on learning environment, and encouraging widespread adoption of sustainable practices.