The Better Cotton Initiative is looking for a Monitoring & Evaluation Officer to facilitate information flows, monitor the implementation of activities and support the evaluation of projects, contributing to the credibility of information and ultimately impact of Better Cotton.


Background
Cotton is one of the most important and widely grown crops in the world, and with more than 90% of cotton farmers living in developing countries, cotton production is fundamental to the livelihoods of millions of poor farmers and workers. However, current cotton growing methods need to change as they are placing unsustainable levels of stress on the environment and the people who produce it. Change means using fewer pesticides, managing water more efficiently, improving soil health and bio-diversity, enhancing fibre quality, and improving the welfare of farm workers.
BCI exists to make global cotton production better for the people who produce it, better for the environment it grows in and better for the sector’s future.
BCI works with a diverse range of stakeholders to promote measurable and continuing improvements for the environment, farming communities and the economies of cotton producing areas.
BCI aims to transform cotton production worldwide by developing Better Cotton as a sustainable mainstream commodity.
BCI’s specific aims are to
1. Reduce the environmental impact of cotton production
2. Improve livelihoods and economic development in cotton producing areas
3. Improve commitment to and flow of Better Cotton throughout the supply chain
4. Ensure the credibility and sustainability of the Better Cotton Initiative
Building on the success to date where Better Cotton does create positive changes for farming communities, and is being bought by BCI retailer and brand members, BCI has set ambitious targets for the future, increasing Better Cotton volume production 8-fold by 2015 and 26-fold by 2020.
Our experience has taught us that the cotton market cannot be left to itself to make the changes happen. Our model for market transformation is based on focused, manageable activities by BCI itself and clear roles for other supply chain actors, partners and governments. Working with our members and partners, BCI will focus on the key drivers at both ends of the supply chain – supply creation/push and demand generation/pull.
Our Strategic Principles
• BCI is focused on effecting change
• BCI is firmly based on the traceability of Better Cotton
• Credibility and the multi-stakeholder nature are crucial to BCI
• Demand for Better Cotton is key to funding and influence
• BCI enables evidence-based communication within a clear framework
• BCI does not set a premium and pricing is a function of the market.