Can Cotton Be Cultivated Without Fields?

From Plant Cells to Cotton Fibers

GALY, a Boston-based company, is exploring an alternative to traditional cotton farming by cultivating cotton through cellular agriculture. This method involves growing cotton cells in controlled environments, eliminating the need for conventional farming practices.

The process begins with extracting cells from cotton plants. These cells are then nurtured in bioreactors, allowing them to develop into cotton fibers without soil or sunlight. The method replicates the qualities of traditional cotton while operating independently of climate conditions and agricultural land.

Broadening the Impact of Lab-Based Fiber Production

Shifting cotton cultivation into the lab does more than change where it’s grown—it also changes how much is used. GALY’s process significantly reduces resource consumption, using 99% less water and 97% less land than conventional farming, according to data from environmental consultancy Quantis. It also cuts the environmental impact of fertilizers by 91%. With production no longer tied to seasonal cycles or weather, lab-grown cotton offers a more stable and predictable supply. Beyond cotton, GALY is exploring whether the same method could apply to other plant-based materials. A long-term agreement with Japan’s Suzuran Medical shows how this approach may find practical use in industries such as healthcare, where material consistency and reliability are essential.

Investment and Industry Interest

GALY has attracted significant investment to further its research and development. The company raised $33 million in a Series B financing round led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, with participation from H&M Group and Inditex, the parent company of Zara .

These investments reflect a growing interest in sustainable alternatives within the textile industry and support GALY's efforts to scale its lab-grown cotton production.