Water Scarcity Threatens Cotton Farming Amid Global Supply Chain Disruptions
A record-setting drought is currently affecting over 60% of the continental United States, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This water crisis is part of a broader global issue, with the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health warning of a 'global water bankruptcy.' Cotton farming, a water-intensive agricultural activity, is particularly impacted. For instance, producing 1 kilogram of cotton fabric requires approximately 9,000 cubic meters of water. Amid geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, such as tariffs and conflicts in Iran and Ukraine, many companies are sourcing cotton from less efficient regions, exacerbating water resource challenges. Kilimo, an Argentina-based climate tech company, is addressing this issue by providing farmers with data-driven solutions to optimize irrigation and improve water efficiency. The company also connects farmers with businesses investing in sustainable practices, helping them transition to more ...