Bangladesh has strengthened its position as the global leader in green environmentally-friendly apparel factories, with 207 factories in the sector now boasting the United States Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED certification (certificate for green factories).
Another Bangladeshi garment factory has obtained green building certification from the USGBC in the platinum category recently, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).
In January, Shah Fatehullah Textile Mills Limited, a Naryanganj factory unit, received a platinum certificate from the USGBC at Leed BD+C; New Construction v4 rating system with a score of 87 out of 110.
Bangladesh has made remarkable strides in sustainable fashion with 207 Leed Green Factories, including 77 Platinum-rated, 116 Gold-rated, 10 Silver-rated, and four certified solidifying its commitment to environmental stewardship.
So far, 54 of the world's top 100 Leed Green Factories are now located in Bangladesh, including nine of the top 10 and 18 of the top 20, this achievement is poised to attract further investment and partnerships, solidifying Bangladesh's position as a global leader in sustainable manufacturing.
The rapid increase in Leed-certified green factories in Bangladesh is a clear and direct result of the garment industry's unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. This dedication to sustainability is absolutely crucial for ensuring the long-term viability and success of this industry.
More 550 factories are in the pipeline to get the USGBC’s Leed certification.
USGBC honors factories based on several criteria – transformation performance, energy, water, and waste management. The best performers are rated with platinum, followed by gold and silver.
These criteria help green factories significantly to reduce operational costs over time even though they may initially cost more to set up, according to industry insiders. These factories also provide a safe working environment for employees.
BGMEA Director Mohiuddin Rubel said they are working on a green revolution.
“Even though there is a shortage of orders all over the world, we are still getting orders only because of our green factories,” he added.
He also said that global buyers and brands are increasing their focus on the environment, which is why eco-friendly factories will no longer be an option, but will become mandatory.
“We are putting in a lot of work now, which will pay off in the future,” he added.