Cotton Genomics and Genetics 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 80-94 http://cropscipublisher.com/index.php/cgg 86 improving drought tolerance; others have enhanced deep water extraction capacity by improving the root system architecture of cotton plants. These explorations provide genetic resources for the future cultivation of climate-resilient cotton. On the other hand, new biotechnology products are emerging in an endless stream in the prevention and control of pests and diseases. For example, for stubborn soil-borne diseases such as cotton Verticillium wilt, some people have tried to transfer disease-resistant genes or colonize engineered bacteria to enhance plant immunity. Another example is the use of RNA interference (RNAi) technology to design cotton to express specific double-stranded RNA fragments, which silences the genes of feeding pests and causes their death (Nagaraj et al., 2024). This transgenic RNAi cotton is expected to fight against piercing-sucking pests (such as planthoppers and aphids) that are currently ineffective against Bt cotton. In addition, the development of new biological pesticides is also worthy of attention. Fungal toxins, botanical pesticides, and biological control agents for cotton pests and diseases are constantly emerging, and some products have been put into commercial use. For example, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) preparations can be used to control lepidopteran larvae in organic cotton fields; biochemical pesticides such as chitinase and chitin synthesis inhibitors have a selective killing effect on cotton pests. Biotechnology has also promoted the improvement of cotton fiber quality. By regulating fiber development-related genes, breeders strive to improve fiber length and strength while increasing yields to meet high-end textile needs. It is worth mentioning that in recent years, Chinese researchers have used synthetic biology to cultivate colored cotton, and cotton fibers are naturally pink, thereby reducing chemical pollution in the subsequent dyeing process (Li et al., 2022). This type of innovation enriches the connotation of sustainable cotton. Biotechnology has brought new possibilities to cotton cultivation. It will take time to move from the laboratory to the industry, but its prospects in improving cotton stress resistance, reducing chemical inputs and improving quality are exciting. 4.3 Digital platform and informatization In modern agriculture, timely acquisition and communication of information are of great value to decision-making optimization. The cotton industry chain is complex, and the application of digital technology can improve the collaborative efficiency and transparency of each link. First, at the planting end, agricultural technology digital service platforms are emerging. For example, some mobile phone applications provide customized guidance for cotton farmers. They only need to input local weather, variety and growth data, and the system can push corresponding management suggestions, including fertilization and irrigation timing, pest and disease warning, etc. This allows small farmers to enjoy expert consulting services and narrows the information gap. An Indian startup team has developed a digital application for cotton farmers, integrating satellite remote sensing and ground data to provide farmers with full guidance from sowing to harvesting (Sarkar et al., 2023). These digital platforms often combine voice and image functions to facilitate farmers with limited literacy. Secondly, in supply chain management, blockchain and Internet of Things technologies have begun to be used for cotton traceability. Brands hope to prove that the cotton they purchase meets sustainable standards, which requires a reliable origin verification system. For example, the "Better Cotton" organization launched a digital tracking system in 2023, allowing the flow of cotton from farms to spinning mills to be recorded in the chain, improving supply chain transparency. Consumers can also scan the QR code on the clothing label to understand the origin and planting specifications of the cotton used in the product, thereby enhancing their confidence in sustainable products. Thirdly, e-commerce and information platforms have built a direct bridge between cotton farmers and textile enterprises. Cotton farmers in some developing countries directly publish cotton supply and demand information through online platforms, obtain market price information, and avoid regional information islands. This digital marketing method helps farmers choose the right time to sell and improve bargaining power. For example, in Xinjiang, China, there is an "Internet + Cotton" comprehensive service platform that brings together information such as supply and marketing, logistics, warehousing, and financial insurance, providing one-stop transactions and services for cotton farmers and cotton ginning factories. It is reported that after the platform went online, the average selling price of local cotton increased by 3%-5%, and the transaction efficiency increased by more than 40% (from relevant industry reports). Finally, digital technology has also promoted international knowledge sharing. Scientific research institutions and agricultural organizations have disseminated sustainable cotton practice experience across borders through online meetings and remote training. For example, academic activities
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