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Core 3.4.1(a) The Managing Entity has a system in place to accurately collect and maintain the following information on CmiA-contracted farmers and farmer groups: • Name • Location • Gender • Age • Area under cotton cultivation • Inputs provided (type and amount) • (Input) pre-finance amount and repayment • Seed cotton at market • Training participation The data are updated annually 9.4.1 The Managing Entity has a plan to phase out by 2024 pesticides with active ingredients defined as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic (CMR) substances listed in categories 1A and 1B of the Globally Harmonised System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS).

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CRITERION 3.4 The Managing Entity operates a data management system. CRITERION 9.4 By 2024, the Managing Entity must phase out the use of pesticides with active ingredients that are defined as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or reprotoxic (CMR) substances according to categories 1A and 1B of GHS.

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9.3.1 The Managing Entity only purchases, distributes, and uses pesticides that are not banned from use for the cultivation of CmiA cotton. Substances falling under the following categories are banned under CmiA: • Stockholm Convention, Annexes A and B • Rotterdam Convention, Annex III • Montreal Protocol, Annexes • Active ingredients categorised as WHO Class Ia (extremely hazardous) or Class Ib (highly hazardous), respectively listed in categories 1 and 2 of GHS For organic production, the regulations relevant for the obtained organic certificate apply.

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CRITERION 9.3 Highly hazardous pesticides are excluded from use in CmiA cotton cultivation. Substances falling under the following categories are banned under CmiA: • Stockholm Convention, Annexes A and B • Rotterdam Convention, Annex III • Montreal Protocol, Annexes • Active ingredients categorised as WHO Class Ia (extremely hazardous) or Class Ib (highly hazardous), respectively listed in categories 1 and 2 of GHS

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Core' 9.2.1 All pesticides used are registered nationally and approved for use in cotton cultivation. 9.2.2 All pesticides used are correctly labelled in accordance with national standards in at least one de facto or de jure official national or applicable regional language.

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CRITERION 9.2 The Managing Entity only uses pesticides that are: (1) nationally registered and approved for use in cotton cultivation; and (2) labelled according to national standards in at least one of the national languages or an applicable official regional language.

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Intent [...] Given the very low fertiliser application rates across sub-Saharan Africa, CmiA does not generally limit the amount of fertiliser used. Instead, the focus is on reconciling the Managing Entity’s policies on fertiliser utilisation with regional soil conditions, national scientific recommendations, and economic thresholds. This also includes training in the use of locally available, natural fertilisers such as compost or manure. Since shallow or highly weathered soils and ineffective or absent soil conservation techniques are major risk factors for net losses of nitrogen, techniques to maintain and improve soil structures contribute greatly to improved nitrogen fixation. Core 8.3.5 CmiA-contracted farmers receive regular training in techniques for soil conservation, such as: • Soil regeneration through crop diversity or crop rotation with leguminous crops • Prevention of erosion • The effective use of fertilisers • The monitoring of soil structure, soil fertility, and nutrient status • Tillage methods for reducing negative effects on soil structure/compaction • The use of cover crops / intercropping • The use of organic matter / animal manure • The application of residue management / mulching

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CRITERION 8.3 The Managing Entity and CmiA-contracted farmers nurture soil health and apply techniques for soil conservation

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9.2.2 All pesticides used are correctly labelled in accordance with national standards in at least one de facto or de jure official national or applicable regional language. 9.9.1 Dedicated (organic) pesticide storage areas of the Managing Entity must fully comply with relevant legislation.

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CRITERION 9.2 The Managing Entity only uses pesticides that are: (1) nationally registered and approved for use in cotton cultivation; and (2) labelled according to national standards in at least one of the national languages or an applicable official regional language. CRITERION 9.9 The Managing Entity stores pesticides safely.

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Intent [...] The pesticides applied shall be as specific as possible to the target and shall have the least side effects on human health, non-target organisms, and the environment, and their use should be kept at minimum levels, e.g. through partial applications. Core 9.1.3 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in threshold spraying and in scouting for key pest and beneficiary insects. 9.1.4 The Managing Entity actively discourages CmiA-contracted farmers from calendar or random spraying.

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CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan.

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9.7.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in: (a) the proper preparation of spray formulations for effective use; (b) safe spraying techniques; (c) maintaining appropriate equipment for (organic) pesticide application; and (d) considering weather conditions when scheduling spraying.

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CRITERION 9.7 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiA contracted farmers apply pesticides in appropriate weather conditions, according to the label and/ or the manufacturer’s instructions, and with appropriate and well maintained equipment.

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9.1.1 The Managing Entity has established a locally adapted and time-bound integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan that identifies the appropriate specific practices for implementing the five IPPM components: (1) Growing healthy crops (2) Preventing the build-up of pest populations and the spread of disease (3) Preserving and enhancing populations of beneficial insects (4) Conducting regular field observations of crop health and of key pest and beneficial insects (5) Managing resistance 9.1.2 The Managing Entity implements its IPPM plan in accordance with the established timeline. Responsibilities and operating procedures are defined and agreed upon by senior management.

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CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan.

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9.1.3 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in threshold spraying and in scouting for key pest and beneficiary insects.

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CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan

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Intent [...] Harmful organisms must be monitored with suitable methods and tools, where available. Such suitable tools should include observations in the field and, where feasible, warnings, forecasting, and early diagnosis systems like traps. INDICATORS 9.1.1 The Managing Entity has established a locally adapted and time-bound integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan that identifies the appropriate specific practices for implementing the five IPPM components: (1) Growing healthy crops (2) Preventing the build-up of pest populations and the spread of disease (3) Preserving and enhancing populations of beneficial insects (4) Conducting regular field observations of crop health and of key pest and beneficial insects (5) Managing resistance

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CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan

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Intent: [...] Regarding pest control, the IPPM approach builds on several strategies, with synthetic broad-spectrum pesticides being the last resort. 9.1.1 The Managing Entity has established a locally adapted and time-bound integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan that identifies the appropriate specific practices for implementing the five IPPM components: (1) Growing healthy crops (2) Preventing the build-up of pest populations and the spread of disease (3) Preserving and enhancing populations of beneficial insects (4) Conducting regular field observations of crop health and of key pest and beneficial insects (5) Managing resistance

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CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan.

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Core 7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas 7.2.3 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity ensures that CmiA-contracted farmers: • have the right to use the land (ideally holding land tenure); • maintain a ten-metre buffer zone of perennial vegetation with open water (river, stream, ditch, canal, pond, or lake); • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for officially designated protected areas; and • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for intact forest landscapes.

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CRITERION 7.2

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Improvement 7.4.8 The Managing Entity promotes ecological diversity by supporting small-scale farmers to protect and enhance on-farm and/or neighbouring habitats and ecosystems. Examples include: • planting trees and/or flowers; • safeguarding biological corridors; and • preserving semi-natural areas (e.g. hedges or meadows).

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Criteria Matrix, Version 3, 1.1.2014, Exclusion Criteria No 7

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The Managing Entity avoids making a negative impact on protected areas and on areas with a high conservation value and assists communities in managing natural resources sustainably Core 7.3.1 Where protected areas and HCV areas are identified, the Managing Entity complies with existing official management and monitoring plans in order to maintain those values. 7.3.2 No cotton ginning occurs within two kilometres of protected areas unless it is allowed under an official management plan for the area. The official management plan is implemented. Improvement 7.3.3(a) Threatened and endangered species in the production area of CmiA-contracted farmers are identified and respected. 7.3.3(b) Threatened and endangered species on the premises of the ginneries are identified and protected. 7.3.4 The Managing Entity assists communities of CmiA-contracted farmers in managing natural resources and lead conservation initiatives of their own, e.g. through capacity building.

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CRITERION 7.3

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Core 7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas 7.2.3 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity ensures that CmiA-contracted farmers: • have the right to use the land (ideally holding land tenure); • maintain a ten-metre buffer zone of perennial vegetation with open water (river, stream, ditch, canal, pond, or lake); • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for officially designated protected areas; and • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for intact forest landscapes.

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CRITERION 7.2 The Managing Entity ensures the responsible use of land.

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7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas

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CRITERION 7.2

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[...] The most important reference points for CmiA as set by international conventions are the areas defined by the IUCN as categories I–IV, important bird areas (IBA), UNESCO world heritage sites, and sites defined by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Core 7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) [...] Improvement 7.3.3(a) Threatened and endangered species in the production area of CmiA-contracted farmers are identified and respected. 7.3.3(b) Threatened and endangered species on the premises of the ginneries are identified and protected.

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CRITERION 7.2 The Managing Entity ensures the responsible use of land. CRITERION 7.3 The Managing Entity avoids making a negative impact on protected areas and on areas with a high conservation value and assists communities in managing natural resources sustainably.

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Core 7.3.1 Where protected areas and HCV areas are identified, the Managing Entity complies with existing official management and monitoring plans in order to maintain those values. Guidance for Implementation [...] HCV 2: Landscape-level ecosystems and mosaics: Large, landscape-level ecosystems and ecosystem mosaics that are significant at global, regional, or national levels and that contain viable populations of a great majority of the naturally occurring species in natural patterns of distribution and abundance. One example is a large tract of grassland with large mammals as well as smaller species.

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CRITERION 7.3 The Managing Entity avoids making a negative impact on protected areas and on areas with a high conservation value and assists communities in managing natural resources sustainably

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Core 8.1.1 The Managing Entity must provide GMO-free cotton seeds. In countries where national legislation allows the cultivation of genetically modified cotton, the Managing Entity can guarantee that CmiA-contracted farmers do not receive any GMO seeds and that clear segregation between GMO and non-GMO cotton is maintained, e.g. in the case of toll ginning.

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CRITERION 8.1 CmiA cotton is not genetically modified and no irrigation from surface or groundwater sources is used for its cultivation.

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Improvement 7.5.3 The use of fire for preparing land, replanting, or destroying crop residues is avoided, except in situations where national law requires otherwise.

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CRITERION 7.5 The Managing Entity assists CmiA-contracted farmers in adapting to climate change and fosters practices that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

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CRITERION 8.2 Core 8.2.3 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers to consider risks to water quality when managing and applying (organic) pesticides and nutrients (cf. criteria 9.8 and 8.3). 8.2.4 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers taking risks to water quality into account when managing and applying (organic) pesticides and nutrients. CRITERION 9.8 Core 9.8.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in: (a) preventing water contamination when using (organic) pesticides; and (b) maintaining buffer zones around seasonal and permanent bodies of water. 9.8.2 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who apply (organic) pesticides in a way that minimises the risk of negatively influencing water quality (cf. criterion 8.2).

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CRITERION 8.2 The Managing Entity sustainably manages water resources and helps CmiA-contracted farmers adapt to changing rainfall patterns. CRITERION 9.8 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiAcontracted farmers apply pesticides without contaminating bodies of water.

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INDICATORS Core Field Ginnery 8.2.1 The Managing Entity has adopted a time-bound water stewardship plan that addresses each of the following components: (1) Assessment of rainfall patterns and amounts (2) Effective soil-moisture management (3) Mapping and understanding of water resources (4) Water-quality management Improvement Field Ginnery 8.2.5 The Managing Entity has identified, mapped, and understood surface and underground water resources in the relevant catchment areas within the cotton-production areas cultivated by CmiA-contracted farmers (cf. indicator 7.2.1). 8.2.6 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in soil moisturemanagement practices with the intent of reducing water evaporation from the soil. 8.2.7 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers applying soil moisture–management practices. Guidance for Implementation Soil-Moisture Management In rainfed regions, timely sowing is important in order to capture the maximum quantity of rainwater during the fruiting phase. Rainfall predictions need to be taken into consideration for all farm operations that are affected by rain. Water conservation methods (like water harvesting, ridge planting, mulching, conservation tillage, cover crops, and draining excess water) are key to providing adequate soil moisture. • Exploring the potential of rainwater harvesting during the rainy season in order to use the harvested water during the dry season decreases pressure on scarce surface and groundwater resources.

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CRITERION 8.2 The Managing Entity sustainably manages water resources and helps CmiA-contracted farmers adapt to changing rainfall patterns.

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No Irrigation Rainfed agriculture depends on infiltrated rainfall, called “green water”, which is stored in the upper layers of the soil and is available to plant roots. Though rainfed agriculture is a given—95 percent of farmed land in Sub-Saharan Africa is rainfed—the exclusion of irrigation under the CmiA standard is a conscious decision. With water becoming an increasingly scarce resource and cotton being a drought-tolerant crop, CmiA relies exclusively on rainfed production methods. A holistic approach that includes proper management of natural resources is needed for the agricultural system’s productivity to be enhanced and for poverty to be reduced without causing further degradation of the natural resource base. There is a significant opportunity to maximise the capture, storage, and use of green water and to unlock the potential of enhanced rainfed agriculture. This builds up climate resilience and moves farmers towards sustainable livelihoods, development, and growth.

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CRITERION 8.1 CmiA cotton is not genetically modified and no irrigation from surface or groundwater sources is used for its cultivation.

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The Managing Entity has identified the main negative environmental impacts at both the field and ginnery levels and implements measures to mitigate them. This includes but is not limited to noise, dust, water use, wastewater, waste, and energy consumption, as applicable. Core 7.1.2(b) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the ginnery level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Air emissions • Waste • Hazardous substances • Fuel and energy use • Noise • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, least every two years.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Improvement 7.1.5 The Managing Entity has a waste management plan that includes strategies in waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and disposal alternatives. The Managing Entity identifies the main types of waste, ways to reduce and reuse waste materials if applicable, and how to dispose of them in the best available way. The Managing Entity develops measures for waste reduction and documents their implementation and impact.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Core 7.1.2(a) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the field level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Hazardous substances • Waste • Fuel use • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, at least every two years.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Core 7.1.3 The Managing Entity collects and separates waste from the ginnery according to local requirements. Waste must be properly disposed of in municipal garbage collection systems where available.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Core 9.2.2 All pesticides used are correctly labelled in accordance with national standards in at least one de facto or de jure official national or applicable regional language. Intent The label should contain information on the appropriate rate and volume of water to be used; any restrictions on use; first aid information; the crop(s) the product is registered for; product compatibility; and container disposal requirements. Core 9.11.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers regarding the dangers of re-using empty (organic) pesticide containers and how to dispose of them in a safe manner. Improvement 9.11.2 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who dispose of empty (organic) pesticide containers safely. 9.11.3 The Managing Entity has a collection, return, and/or disposal system (organised by the Managing Entity, the government, a supplier, or a designated service provider) for empty (organic) pesticide containers.

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CRITERION 9.2 The Managing Entity only uses pesticides that are: (1) nationally registered and approved for use in cotton cultivation; and (2) labelled according to national standards in at least one of the national languages or an applicable official regional language. CRITERION 9.11 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiA contracted farmers dispose of empty pesticide containers safely.

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Improvement 7.5.3 The use of fire for preparing land, replanting, or destroying crop residues is avoided, except in situations where national law requires otherwise.

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CRITERION 7.5 The Managing Entity assists CmiA-contracted farmers in adapting to climate change and fosters practices that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

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Improvement 7.1.5 The Managing Entity has a waste management plan that includes strategies in waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and disposal alternatives. The Managing Entity identifies the main types of waste, ways to reduce and reuse waste materials if applicable, and how to dispose of them in the best available way. The Managing Entity develops measures for waste reduction and documents their implementation and impact.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Improvement 9.11.3 The Managing Entity has a collection, return, and/or disposal system (organised by the Managing Entity, the government, a supplier, or a designated service provider) for empty (organic) pesticide containers.

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9.11.3 The Managing Entity has a collection, return, and/or disposal system (organised by the Managing Entity, the government, a supplier, or a designated service provider) for empty (organic) pesticide containers.

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Core 7.1.2(b) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the ginnery level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Air emissions • Waste • Hazardous substances • Fuel and energy use • Noise • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, least every two years.

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Improvement 7.1.7 The Managing Entity measures and monitors the energy consumption in its ginneries and develops a plan for energy reduction and recovery. Where appropriate, climate-smart energy sources are used. A system to measure achievements is in place (cf. indicator 7.1.4(b)).

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CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact.

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Intent [...] By far the greatest technological potential for reducing emissions from agricultural production lies in carbon sequestration in the soil, which is mainly achieved through changes to good agricultural practices, such as minimising the use of synthetic fertilisers or recycling cotton crop residues for soil fertility management instead of burning them. Further reductions in emissions can be achieved through increasing efficiency in agricultural inputs (e.g. fertilisers, pesticides, or fuel for tractors or other heavy equipment). At ginneries, the electricity supply could be shifted towards renewable energy, e.g. solar power. Core 7.5.2 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in farming methods and best practices that help them adapt to the impact of climate change, including but not limited to good agricultural practices (cf. indicator 11.1.1), crop diversification, and soil management (cf. criteria 12.1 and 8.3).

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CRITERION 7.5 The Managing Entity assists CmiA-contracted farmers in adapting to climate change and fosters practices that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

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Core 7.5.1 The Managing Entity regularly collects data on precipitation patterns (e.g. volume and inter- and intra-annual variations and trends) for its areas of operation, using this information to increase farmers’ resilience to climate change, e.g. by adapting recommendations for the scheduling of agricultural practices (cf. indicator 11.1.1 on good agricultural practices). 7.5.2 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in farming methods and best practices that help them adapt to the impact of climate change, including but not limited to good agricultural practices (cf. indicator 11.1.1), crop diversification, and soil management (cf. criteria 12.1 and 8.3).

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CRITERION 7.5 The Managing Entity assists CmiA-contracted farmers in adapting to climate change and fosters practices that reduce greenhouse-gas emissions.

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Core 8.3.5 CmiA-contracted farmers receive regular training in techniques for soil conservation, such as: • Soil regeneration through crop diversity or crop rotation with leguminous crops • Prevention of erosion • The effective use of fertilisers • The monitoring of soil structure, soil fertility, and nutrient status • Tillage methods for reducing negative effects on soil structure/compaction • The use of cover crops / intercropping • The use of organic matter / animal manure • The application of residue management / mulching 8.3.8 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who control soil erosion, including through special mitigation measures on slopes.

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CRITERION 8.3

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Core 7.4.1 The Managing Entity has a progressive plan to manage biodiversity that addresses the following components: (1) Identifying and restoring degraded areas (2) Enhancing populations of beneficial insects as per the integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan (cf. criterion 9.1) (3) Enhancing crop rotation (cf. indicators 8.3.6 and 8.3.7) (4) Protecting riparian areas (cf. indicators 7.4.5 and 7.4.6) Guidance for Implementation [...] • To define appropriate approaches to managing degraded areas—including soil-compacted, eroded, or nutrient-depleted areas—and to restoring them over time, thereby helping enhance biodiversity while increasing yields in these areas

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CRITERION 7.4 The Managing Entity has a biodiversity management plan and promotes ecological diversity.

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The Managing Entity and CmiA-contracted farmers nurture soil health and apply techniques for soil conservation Core 8.3.1 The Managing Entity has a soil management plan that addresses each of the following components: (1) Identification of main soil types and conditions in the cotton-growing areas (2) Assessment of main measures for maintenance and enhancement of soil structure and fertility (3) Assessment of main measures for the continuous improvement of nutrient cycling (4) Identification of main training needs (5) Assessment of adoption rates of soil-fertility measures by CmiA-contracted farmers and, if necessary, analysis of main bottleneck obstructing adoption 8.3.4 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers to monitor soil fertility and nutrient status.

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CRITERION 8.3

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Core 8.3.6 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers using crop rotation (i.e. the practice of alternating the crops grown in a specific field in a regular sequence). Cotton is not grown in the same field several years in a row. 8.3.7 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who include a leguminous crop in their crop rotation or who let the field in question lie fallow for one year.

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CRITERION 8.3

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Core 8.2.1 The Managing Entity has adopted a time-bound water stewardship plan that addresses each of the following components: (1) Assessment of rainfall patterns and amounts (2) Effective soil-moisture management (3) Mapping and understanding of water resources (4) Water-quality management Guidance for Implementation Soil-Moisture Management [...] Water conservation methods (like water harvesting, ridge planting, mulching, conservation tillage, cover crops, and draining excess water) are key to providing adequate soil moisture. [...] • Cover crops and mulching help conserve soil moisture. A variety of cover crops can be used, but legume crops are preferred because they fix nitrogen, grow vigorously, and degrade rapidly to enrich the soil. Cover crops can either be grown prior to the cultivation of cotton or along with it. The cover crop is slashed 40 to 60 days after sowing, following which it is layered over the soil as mulch or incorporated into the soil for faster degradation, making its nutrients available to the cotton more quickly. Core: 8.3.5 CmiA-contracted farmers receive regular training in techniques for soil conservation, such as: • Soil regeneration through crop diversity or crop rotation with leguminous crops • Prevention of erosion • The effective use of fertilisers • The monitoring of soil structure, soil fertility, and nutrient status • Tillage methods for reducing negative effects on soil structure/compaction • The use of cover crops / intercropping • The use of organic matter / animal manure • The application of residue management / mulching Improvement 8.3.11 Percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who apply more soil conservation techniques (in addition to those mentioned in indicators 8.3.8, 8.3.9, and 8.3.10) and were trained by the Managing Entity. Such techniques include: [...] • The use of cover crops / intercropping Guidance for Implementation Methods of soil conservation include but are not limited to: [...] • Using cover crops to prevent soil erosion by covering the soil with living vegetation and roots that hold the soil together; this also maintains organic matter in the soil, increases nitrogen availability, and retains excess nutrients

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CRITERION 8.2 The Managing Entity sustainably manages water resources and helps CmiA-contracted farmers adapt to changing rainfall patterns. CRITERION 8.3 The Managing Entity and CmiA-contracted farmers nurture soil health and apply techniques for soil conservation.

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Intent [...] Given the very low fertiliser application rates across sub-Saharan Africa, CmiA does not generally limit the amount of fertiliser used. Instead, the focus is on reconciling the Managing Entity’s policies on fertiliser utilisation with regional soil conditions, national scientific recommendations, and economic thresholds. This also includes training in the use of locally available, natural fertilisers such as compost or manure. Since shallow or highly weathered soils and ineffective or absent soil conservation techniques are major risk factors for net losses of nitrogen, techniques to maintain and improve soil structures contribute greatly to improved nitrogen fixation. Core 8.3.5 CmiA-contracted farmers receive regular training in techniques for soil conservation, such as: • Soil regeneration through crop diversity or crop rotation with leguminous crops • Prevention of erosion • The effective use of fertilisers • The monitoring of soil structure, soil fertility, and nutrient status • Tillage methods for reducing negative effects on soil structure/compaction • The use of cover crops / intercropping • The use of organic matter / animal manure • The application of residue management / mulching

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CRITERION 8.3 The Managing Entity and CmiA-contracted farmers nurture soil health and apply techniques for soil conservation

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Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: 1. Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) 2. Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98) 3. Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) (and its 2014 Protocol) 4. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) 5. Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138) 6. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) 7. Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100) 8. Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) Core 5.5.1 Employees and workers can freely establish and join workers’ organisations, both internal (such as workers’ representation) and external (such as trade unions) and take part in collective bargaining on working conditions. The Managing Entity: • respects the right of all employees and workers to form or join workers’ organisations; • respects the rights of workers’ organisations to draw up their own constitutions and rules, elect representatives, organise activities, and formulate programmes in full freedom; • respects the rights of workers’ organisation to bargain collectively in practice; • accepts that it has the duty to bargain in good faith with workers’ organisations; and • provides workers’ organisations with the information needed for meaningful negotiation in a timely manner.

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations. CRITERION 5.5 The Managing Entity guarantees all employees and workers the right to establish and join workers’ organisations and to bargain collectively.

Excerpt from standard:

Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: 1. Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) 2. Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98) 3. Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) (and its 2014 Protocol) 4. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) 5. Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138) 6. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) 7. Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100) 8. Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) Core 5.5.1 Employees and workers can freely establish and join workers’ organisations, both internal (such as workers’ representation) and external (such as trade unions) and take part in collective bargaining on working conditions. The Managing Entity: • respects the right of all employees and workers to form or join workers’ organisations; • respects the rights of workers’ organisations to draw up their own constitutions and rules, elect representatives, organise activities, and formulate programmes in full freedom; • respects the rights of workers’ organisation to bargain collectively in practice; • accepts that it has the duty to bargain in good faith with workers’ organisations; and • provides workers’ organisations with the information needed for meaningful negotiation in a timely manner.

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations. CRITERION 5.5 The Managing Entity guarantees all employees and workers the right to establish and join workers’ organisations and to bargain collectively.

Excerpt from standard:

Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: 1. Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) 2. Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98) 3. Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) (and its 2014 Protocol) 4. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) 5. Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138) 6. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) 7. Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100) 8. Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) Indicators Core 5.1.1(a) No forced, bonded, trafficked, or otherwise involuntary labour, including involuntary prison labour, is used or tolerated at the field level. 5.1.1(b) No forced, bonded, trafficked, or otherwise involuntary labour, including involuntary prison labour, is used or tolerated at the ginnery level.

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations CRITERION 5.1 The Managing Entity guarantees free choice of employment and ensures that there is no forced or compulsory labour, which includes bonded or trafficked labour.

Excerpt from standard:

Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: [...] 5. Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138) [...] CRITERION 6.1 Core 6.1.1 The Managing Entity has a time-bound plan for the prevention of child labour at the field level in accordance with ILO conventions 138 and 182 and applicable national laws. 6.1.2(a) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. The policy also specifies under which circumstances and for which tasks children of CmiA-contracted farmers are allowed to help on the family farm. This policy is communicated to all CmiA-contracted farmers. 6.1.2(b) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. This policy is communicated to all employees and workers. It is also communicated to sub-contractors as a mandatory contractual component. The Managing Entity’s subcontractors must comply with the policy

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations. PRINCIPLE 6: CmiA Managing Entities respect the rights of children and promote gender equality. CRITERION 6.1 The Managing Entity respects the rights of children and ensures that there is no child labour in accordance with ILO Conventions 138 and 182. In the case of small-scale farming families, children may help on their family’s farm provided that the work is not liable to negatively affect their health, safety, well-being, education, or development and that they are supervised by adults and given appropriate training.

Excerpt from standard:

Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: [...] 6. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) [...] CRITERION 6.1 Core 6.1.1 The Managing Entity has a time-bound plan for the prevention of child labour at the field level in accordance with ILO conventions 138 and 182 and applicable national laws. 6.1.2(a) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. The policy also specifies under which circumstances and for which tasks children of CmiA-contracted farmers are allowed to help on the family farm. This policy is communicated to all CmiA-contracted farmers. 6.1.2(b) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. This policy is communicated to all employees and workers. It is also communicated to sub-contractors as a mandatory contractual component. The Managing Entity’s subcontractors must comply with the policy

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations. PRINCIPLE 6: CmiA Managing Entities respect the rights of children and promote gender equality. CRITERION 6.1 The Managing Entity respects the rights of children and ensures that there is no child labour in accordance with ILO Conventions 138 and 182. In the case of small-scale farming families, children may help on their family’s farm provided that the work is not liable to negatively affect their health, safety, well-being, education, or development and that they are supervised by adults and given appropriate training.

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Intent [...] Intent The ILO Equal Remuneration Convention (C 100) applies the principle of equal remuneration for men and women for work of equal value, meaning that rates of remuneration must be determined without reference to gender. However, unequal pay might not only be based on gender but can affect other groups of workers too, e.g. workers of different nationalities or ethnicities. CmiA therefore requires Managing Entities to ensure equal pay for equal work for all groups of people. 5.9.4 The Managing Entity offers equal pay for equal work to all employees and workers—whether permanent, temporary, or migrant—without discrimination based on gender or any other factor. This includes equivalent benefits and employment conditions for equal work.

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CRITERION 5.9 The Managing Entity ensures that all employees and workers enjoy fair conditions of employment with regard to wages and contracts.

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Introduction to the Principle CmiA follows the concept of decent work, as developed by the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which involves opportunities for work that is productive and delivers a fair income; security in the workplace; social protection for families; better prospects for personal development and social integration; freedom for people to express their concerns, to organise, and to participate in the decisions that affect their lives; and equality of opportunity and treatment for all women and men. The ILO is the authoritative international body on employment and labour issues and has developed international labour standards. With its Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work1, the ILO identified eight of its conventions as fundamental, covering four categories: • Freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining • The elimination of forced or compulsory labour • The abolition of child labour • The elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation The eight fundamental conventions are: 1. Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948 (No. 87) 2. Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98) 3. Forced Labour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) (and its 2014 Protocol) 4. Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) 5. Minimum Age Convention, 1973 (No. 138) 6. Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention, 1999 (No. 182) 7. Equal Remuneration Convention, 1951 (No. 100) 8. Discrimination (Employment and Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) Core 5.2.1 The Managing Entity does not tolerate any form of discrimination. This includes benefits or discrimination in terms of contracting, promotion, remuneration, training, or other activities on any basis, including gender, age, religion, race, colour, caste, ethnicity, nationality, social background, disability, political opinion, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, pregnancy, childbirth, marital status, disease, and membership in farmers’ unions or farmers’ representative bodies.

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PRINCIPLE 5: CmiA Managing Entities promote decent working conditions throughout all field and ginning operations. CRITERION 5.2 The Managing Entity implements a policy of non-discrimination and supports disadvantaged groups.

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Core 5.3.1(a) The Managing Entity does not directly or indirectly engage in, support, or tolerate the use of corporal punishment, sexual harassment, mental or physical coercion, or any other kind of verbal or physical abuse or harassment at the field level. 5.3.1(b) The Managing Entity does not directly or indirectly engage in, support, or tolerate the use of corporal punishment, sexual harassment, mental or physical coercion, or any other kind of verbal or physical abuse or harassment at the ginnery level. 5.3.2(a) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a policy for its staff that clearly prohibits sexual harassment at the field level, including behaviour, gestures, language, and physical contact that are sexually intimidating, abusive, or exploitative. CmiAcontracted farmers, employees, and workers are aware of this policy and its contents, and it applies to management and workers alike. 5.3.2(b) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a policy for its staff that clearly prohibits sexual harassment at the ginnery level, including behaviour, gestures, language, and physical contact that are sexually intimidating, abusive, or exploitative. Employees and workers are aware of this policy and its contents, and it applies to management and workers alike. 5.3.3 The Managing Entity has established and implemented a transparent policy for disciplinary measures and ensures that employees and workers are aware of this policy. The policy is in line with the principle of non-discrimination (cf. indicator 5.2.2(b)) and includes procedures for implementation.

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CRITERION 5.3 The Managing Entity ensures a respectful working environment without harassment or corporal punishment and with transparent disciplinary measures.

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Intent Managing Entities respect the right of workers to healthy working conditions and must comply with national occupational health and safety regulations or, if domestic legislation is weak or poorly enforced, with international standards. Core 5.12.1 The Managing Entity has a health and safety policy in place and communicates it to employees and workers. 5.12.2 The Managing Entity appoints a health and safety focal person (H&S focal person) to be in charge of occupational health and safety matters and to report to senior management. The H&S focal person must be qualified, adequately trained for the job, and equipped with sufficient time and resources to carry out duties including: implementing, suggesting, planning, and monitoring measures to improve on-site health and safety in addition to informing and training employees and workers in H&S. The duties of the H&S focal person must be included in the corresponding employment contract / job description. 5.12.3 The Managing Entity ensures that regular assessments of the main health and safety risks as well as all potential work hazards are conducted, and measures are implemented to eliminate or mitigate these risks. All risks and hazards as well as planned and implemented activities are well documented in an H&S plan. The H&S plan: • is maintained and reviewed when necessary, at least every two years; • includes specific measures for young employees and workers, pregnant and nursing women, persons with disabilities, and elderly workers, as applicable; and • ensures equal treatment for employees and workers facing similar risks. 5.12.4 The Managing Entity has procedures in place to ensure that worker representatives are involved in health and safety matters, e.g. through regular meetings with the H&S focal person, by taking part in inspections, or by participating in a health and safety committee. Employees and workers have the possibility to report any health and safety risks or work hazards. 5.12.5 The Managing Entity ensures that all employees and workers are trained in the basic requirements of occupational health and safety and relevant health protection immediately before starting any new job. Employees and workers that are engaged in potentially hazardous work are trained according to the tasks they carry out at least once a year. The training includes the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). All employees and workers are made aware of their right to remove themselves from unsafe situations without seeking permission or being penalised for doing so. Regular refresher training takes place at least once a year. The Managing Entity keeps records of the training activities, indicating training topics, time, duration, and the names of attendees and trainers. 5.12.6 The H&S point person must compile reports on all accidents and subsequent first-aid measures occurring at the workplace, in company-controlled residences and properties, or during work-related travel and transport. This includes recording of the number of fatalities and lost-time injuries (any injury sustained by an employee while on the job that prevents the employee from performing his or her job for at least one day or shift). Reports are provided for risk assessments, and the H&S point person proposes actions to reduce work-related accidents and illnesses where possible.

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CRITERION 5.12 The Managing Entity provides a safe and healthy workplace.

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Core 5.12.5 The Managing Entity ensures that all employees and workers are trained in the basic requirements of occupational health and safety and relevant health protection immediately before starting any new job. Employees and workers that are engaged in potentially hazardous work are trained according to the tasks they carry out at least once a year. The training includes the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). All employees and workers are made aware of their right to remove themselves from unsafe situations without seeking permission or being penalised for doing so. Regular refresher training takes place at least once a year. The Managing Entity keeps records of the training activities, indicating training topics, time, duration, and the names of attendees and trainers.

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CRITERION 5.12 The Managing Entity provides a safe and healthy workplace.

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5.15.1 All employees and workers have access to drinking water in sufficient quantity and close to the working area. The rest or food-consumption area has clearly labelled drinking-water facilities. The water quality is monitored, and monitoring results are documented.

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CRITERION 5.15 The Managing Entity provides all employees and workers with clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, changing rooms, and areas for rest and food consumption.

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5.15.3 All employees and workers have access to adequate rest areas, food-consumption areas, canteens, and/or food-storage facilities. Rest and eating areas are clean, well maintained, and, as much as possible, free of pests. There are hand-washing facilities close to the food-consumption areas.

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Core 5.15.2 All employees and workers have access to clean toilets with hand-washing facilities and changing rooms. Lockable storage facilities are provided for staff. Toilets and changing rooms are separate for women and men, and the number of toilets and hand-washing facilities are in proportion to the number of employees and workers. All facilities are well maintained and cleaned regularly.

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CRITERION 5.15 The Managing Entity provides all employees and workers with clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, changing rooms, and areas for rest and food consumption.

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Core 1.1.5 The Managing Entity is not involved in any act of corruption, extortion, or embezzlement nor in any form of bribery, including but not limited to the promising, offering, giving, or accepting of any improper monetary or non-monetary incentive. 1.1.4 The Managing Entity has a written anti-corruption policy, which is documented and communicated to all levels of the workforce and operations.

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CRITERION 1.1 The Managing Entity obeys the law and complies with national sectoral policies and codes of conduct.