Economy
Bangladesh RMG Sector Surpasses 200 LEED-Certified Green Factories
The recent LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications in Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry signify a noteworthy step towards sustainable practices. As of 2023, 24 factories have achieved LEED certification, adding to the country’s existing total of 206 certified green factories. This commitment to environmentally responsible and energy-efficient manufacturing is particularly emphasized by the breakdown of certifications, with 76 factories attaining the highest, platinum rating, and 116 receiving a gold rating.
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director Mohiuddin Rubel highlighted the notable performers in the recent certifications, with 16 of the 24 newly certified factories receiving the prestigious platinum rating. S. M. Sourcing and Green Textiles Limited Unit 4 stood out with high scores of 106 and 104 points, respectively. Other noteworthy achievers included Integra Dresses and Knit Asia Limited with 99 points, Lida Textile & Dying Limited scoring 97 points, and Liz Fashion Industry Limited achieving 96 points.
This remarkable progress aligns with global trends in sustainable fashion, as the industry places increased focus on environmentally friendly practices. Bangladesh’s leading position in the global sustainable fashion movement is evident, with 54 out of the top 100 LEED-certified green factories worldwide situated in the country. This includes 9 out of the top 10 and 18 out of the top 20 LEED-certified factories globally.
The positive impact of this achievement extends beyond environmental stewardship. Mohiuddin Rubel sees the potential for increased investment and partnership opportunities in Bangladesh’s RMG industry as a result of its leadership in sustainable manufacturing practices. The geographic distribution of certifications within Bangladesh reflects a nationwide commitment to sustainability, with the majority of the 2023 certifications in Gazipur (15 factories), followed by Dhaka (4), Chattogram (3), and Mymensingh (2).
The ongoing commitment to LEED certification is evident in the fact that over 500 Bangladeshi factories are currently in the process of obtaining their certifications. This proactive approach underscores the industry’s dedication to green practices, making Bangladesh a key player in the global push for more sustainable manufacturing.
Expatriate Bangladeshis sent approximately US$ 2.11 billion in remittances during the first 28 days of September in the fiscal year 2024-25, according to data released by Bangladesh Bank on 29 September.
Of this total, state-owned and specialised banks handled $679.10 million, while private banks received $1.43 billion in remittances.
Chief Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has vowed to expedite reforms and hold elections swiftly. Yunus, who recently assumed the role after the collapse of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year administration, expressed his commitment during an interview with Tokyo-based news outlet NHK WORLD in New York on Sunday. He was attending the United Nations General Assembly at the time.
Following mass student-led protests that ended Hasina’s long-standing rule in August, Yunus stepped in as the leader of the caretaker government. Known for founding Grameen Bank, an institution providing microloans to the underprivileged, Yunus, along with the bank, earned the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his efforts in poverty alleviation.
During the interview, Yunus emphasized that the interim government’s primary mission is to implement reforms promptly and ensure elections are held as soon as the groundwork is complete. He underscored the importance of success, stating, “Failure is not something that we can accept.”
Addressing the pivotal role of students in the ousting of the Hasina administration, Yunus acknowledged the sacrifices made by young people, referring to their involvement as part of a “revolution.” He highlighted his intention to engage the younger generation in shaping policy.
Furthermore, Yunus called for continued support from Japan, Bangladesh’s largest donor, during this crucial transition period. He stressed that Japan’s assistance is vital to stabilizing Bangladesh’s economy and fostering a democratic foundation in the nation.
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, the Adviser for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, announced today that steps will be taken to restrict the use of polythene shopping bags to safeguard future generations.
Starting from October 1, polythene bags will be banned in shopping malls, followed by a ban in kitchen markets from November 1.
“Everyone must take responsibility and stop using polythene voluntarily. Action against polythene producers will begin from November 1,” Rizwana Hasan stated during a seminar.
The Department of Environment (DoE) organized the seminar to raise public awareness about alternatives to banned polythene bags.
Rizwana Hasan highlighted that the restriction on polythene will be executed in phases according to legal provisions, and discussions with shopping centers and store owners are ongoing to ensure a smooth transition.
She also announced plans to make the government secretariat a plastic-free zone by December.
Other speakers at the seminar included Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Abdul Hamid, Director Rajinara Begum, President of the Shop Owners Association Muhammad Helal Uddin, and Md. Arifur Rahman Bhuiyan, Assistant Professor of Environmental Science at BUP. They discussed the harmful effects of polythene and the need for alternative products.
Earlier, Rizwana Hasan inaugurated a fair showcasing eco-friendly alternatives to polythene bags and visited 24 stalls. The fair featured products from government and private entrepreneurs, including reusable bags, jute bags, paper bags, and items made from bamboo and cane.
