It is indeed a matter of national pride that a Bangladeshi RMG factory is now the global leader as a Leed-certified green factory with a score of 106 -- the highest ever score in the industry category project in the world.
This is just another example of the incredible turnaround made by the RMG industry since the wake of the Rana Plaza tragedy over a decade ago -- over the decade, sustainable textile manufacturing has been a core component of the industry and there can be little doubts left about Bangladesh’s commitment to the cause.
However, despite the unquestionable transformation of the industry, it is a shame that we continue to be observed in the same light as a decade ago, and continue to be offered far lower prices for our products than many contemporary nations.
While some of the blame may lie on the RMG industry itself for being unable to position itself as a transformed industry, we also expect better from foreign buyers, who have simply not put their money where their mouths have been.
Foreign buyers must recognize the tangible efforts made by Bangladesh's RMG industry to foster a more sustainable future. This acknowledgment should extend beyond applause to a commitment to fair pricing. While the global market is often driven by competitive pricing, the added value of sustainability should be reflected in the purchasing decisions of international buyers.
While the achievement of having the world's highest-rated green factory is good for Bangladesh's RMG industry, it is only when foreign buyers do their part through fair pricing will they be part of the solution to global sustainability and ethical business practices.
