02/28/2026
It's a common misconception that cotton is an excessively thirsty crop. The data tells a different story.
According to data from the FAO AQUASTAT, agriculture accounts for 72% of global water usage, while cotton farming is responsible for only 2% of that amount. In the U.S., 64% of the cotton crop requires no irrigation at all, relying solely on natural rainfall.
Cotton's natural drought tolerance, combined with innovations in precision irrigation and soil health, makes it a resilient and responsible choice for global supply chains. As we build a more sustainable future, leveraging crops that do more with less is not just an option—it's a necessity.
Learn more about cotton and water facts on CottonToday.com.
https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Cotton-Incorporated-Water-Factsheet.pdf
