Unilever Bangladesh Limited (UBL) has been honored with the “Bangladesh Sustainability Excellence Awards” in recognition of its remarkable contributions in the Environment category. The accolade, bestowed by The Daily Star and CSR Window Bangladesh, acknowledged the exemplary efforts of Unilever and other corporate entities and individuals for their impactful projects benefitting society and the environment.

Syed Manzur Elahi, Chairman of Apex Group and Chief Guest at the event, presented the award to Shamima Akhter, Director of Corporate Affairs, Partnerships and Communications, UBL, along with Ruhul Quddus, Supply Chain Director, and Sumaiya Tabassum Ahmed, Manager of Sustainability, Partnerships, and Communications at UBL.

UBL’s plastic circularity initiative has received acclaim for establishing a circular model for plastic waste, enhancing the informal value chain, improving livelihoods, and engaging the community. The project, in partnership with Chattogram City Corporation and Young Power in Social Action (YPSA), has facilitated the collection of 10,000 tons of plastic waste since 2022, benefiting over 2850 waste workers and reaching more than 1 million people through awareness campaigns across all 41 wards of the city. UBL, through this initiative, manages 10% of Chattogram City Corporation’s plastic waste.

Aligned with Unilever’s global sustainability framework—the Unilever Compass—the company has set clear strategic goals for its Climate Transition Action Plan, aiming for zero emissions in its operations by 2030 and net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2039. Unilever is transitioning to renewable energy, exploring low-carbon ingredients, expanding its plant-based product range, and developing fossil-fuel-free cleaning and laundry products. Globally, Unilever is actively working to reduce the environmental impact of its products, including plastic waste management.

On the 27th of November, 2023, Bengal Group of Industries, a distinguished conglomerate in Bangladesh, and BRAC, one of the world’s largest non-governmental development organizations, formalized a strategic alliance through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at Bengal House. The primary objective of this MOU is to foster collaboration in the development and employment opportunities for fresh graduates.

This collaborative initiative signifies a significant stride in the realms of educational and professional advancement. The partnership endeavors to bridge the divide between academia and industry, ensuring that graduates are not only academically proficient but also possess the practical skills demanded by the ever-evolving job market.

The terms of the MOU outline that Bengal Group of Industries, with its diverse business portfolio, will share invaluable insights into industry trends, job market requirements, and potential employment prospects for graduates. Meanwhile, BRAC, leveraging its expertise in education, training, and development, will focus on grooming and preparing graduates for the challenges of the professional world.

The signing ceremony was executed by Hasan Taiab Imam, Group Head-HR of Bengal Group of Industries, and Md. Al Imran, Head of Operations for BRAC Skills Development Programme. Taiab expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing the joint effort’s aim to equip graduates with the skills demanded by today’s dynamic business environment.

“We are excited about this collaboration with Bengal Group of Industries,” said Imran. “This partnership reflects our joint commitment to empowering young talents with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the competitive job market.”

The ceremony was attended by representatives from both organizations, including Barrister Mahbubur Rahman, Chief Administrative Officer, Md. Hasanuzzaman, Lead HR Operations, Tasnim Fatema Rahman, Lead People, OD, ER & Culture, Mst. Sohel Saedatun Easmin, Lead Learning & Development, Mahfuzul Haq, Asst. Manager-HRD from Bengal Group of Industries and Debangshu Ghosh, Operations Manager- BRAC Skills Development Program, Mosabbir Reza, Employment Officer- BRAC Skills Development Program from BRAC. Barrister Rahman from Bengal, said,” The event served as a platform for dialogue on future initiatives and collaborative projects that will be undertaken to achieve the shared goals of the partnership.”

This alliance echoes the broader commitment of both Bengal Group of Industries and BRAC to contribute to the socio-economic development of the region by cultivating a skilled and empowered workforce.

Bangladesh Finance has launched a groundbreaking financial product called the ‘Green Deposit’ as part of its commitment to steering the country towards a sustainable economy. The Chairman, Manwar Hossain, and the Managing Director and CEO, Md. Kyser Hamid, officially introduced the product at an event hosted by Bangladesh Finance at the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Motijheel on Thursday evening, November 16, 2023.

The Chairman highlighted the significance of the ‘Green Deposit,’ emphasizing its role as an innovative initiative designed to direct customers’ savings toward social responsibility. The primary focus is on supporting initiatives related to sustainable development, providing opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs, especially women, and contributing to the creation of not only economically self-reliant communities but also a sustainable and environmentally friendly world.

The Managing Director and CEO further underscored the product’s importance, stating that the objective is to leave a habitable world for future generations. By preventing the adverse effects of natural calamities, particularly those related to the greenhouse effect, it becomes possible to protect the environment. In alignment with government and Bangladesh Bank initiatives aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions, Bangladesh Finance has introduced the 100% eco-friendly financial product, the “Bangladesh Finance Green Deposit.”

The ‘Green Deposit’ establishes a unique platform where deposits are exclusively tied to Green Financing accounts. Going beyond a conventional account, this platform empowers customers to contribute actively to the country’s sustainable development, allowing them to be recognized in terms of their carbon footprint. It serves as a milestone towards building a socially responsible and environmentally sustainable society, contributing to the vision of a Green Bangladesh with a robust and eco-friendly economy. Officials from Bangladesh Finance were present at the event to mark this significant initiative.