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What is the water footprint of cotton in Pakistan, and how does it affect sustainable textile choices?
We show you how Pakistan’s cotton production uses water. We share experts’ views and clear steps. These help you choose a cotton supply chain that uses water wisely.

🔍 Water Use: The Hidden Volume Behind Pakistan’s Cotton

Pakistan grows a lot of cotton. Yet cotton needs huge water. This need grows unsustainable in a dry region.

• Pakistan uses 22,596 m³ of water per ton of finished cotton fabric (Khan & Ali, 2024, Water Conservation Science and Engineering).
• Blue water (irrigation water) and grey water (wastewater from processing) are higher than green water (rainwater).
• Cotton farming and ginning use most water in the supply chain.
• Water scarcity may hit Pakistan by 2025 (Business Recorder, 2023).

Drip irrigation seems to solve this issue. It can cut water use by 49.66% during farming (Khan & Ali, 2024).

🚩 Water Use Highlight
• 22,596 m³ water per ton of cotton fabric in Pakistan — source: Khan & Ali (2024)
• 49.66% less water with drip irrigation — Water Conservation Science and Engineering
Read the full study

• Expert Tips for Reducing Cotton’s Water Footprint in Pakistan:
– Help farmers use drip irrigation for more water efficiency.
– Back policies that promote water recycling and greywater treatment in mills.
– Use cotton varieties that need less water in dry areas.
– Invest in training programs for smart irrigation practices.
– Create partnerships between public groups and private firms to improve water tools.

🔍 Carbon Emissions Related to Cotton Water Use

Water use is not the only harm. Irrigation and processing need energy. This energy use brings extra carbon emissions.

• Irrigation makes a large share of indirect emissions in Pakistan’s cotton chain (Khan & Ali, 2024).
• Using energy-saving pumps and renewable energy helps cut these emissions.

🔍 Chemical Inputs Linked to Water Pollution

Grey water also shows chemical issues. Chemicals run off and pollute water.

• Fertilizers and pesticides from cotton farming hurt local water.
• Better pest control and organic farming help lower chemical pollution.

🔍 Recycling and Circularity Opportunities

• Recycling cotton lowers water use compared to new cotton (Hoekstra et al., 2011).
• A circular textile economy in Pakistan can ease pressure on fresh water.

❓ FAQ:
Q: How does drip irrigation reduce water use in cotton farming?
A: Drip irrigation sends water straight to the plants’ roots. This method cuts evaporation and runoff. In Pakistan, drip irrigation nearly halves water use during cotton farming. It makes the process more sustainable while keeping yields high (Khan & Ali, 2024).

For more insights and tips, check out our detailed guide:
👉 Environmental Impact of Cotton: Your Questions Answered

Sources:
• Khan, Y., & Ali, Y. (2024). Analysis of Water Footprint and Sustainability of the Cotton Supply Chain in Pakistan, Water Conservation Science and Engineering. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41101-024-0018-4
• Business Recorder. (2023). ‘Country may face water scarcity by 2025’. https://www.brecorder.com/news/40266892/country-may-face-water-scarcity-by-2025
• Hoekstra, A. Y., Chapagain, A. K., et al. (2011). The Water Footprint Assessment Manual. https://waterfootprint.org/resources/TheWaterFootprintAssessmentManual_English.pdf

We work hard to help you choose sustainable textiles. Watch for more expert tips soon!

Warm regards,
[Your Sustainable Textile Expert Team]

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