There is no doubt that the aftermath of the August 5 revolution has ushered in a new era for Bangladesh, but one that has simultaneously demanded a robust rebuilding effort across all sectors. This is also true for our RMG industry.
To that end, we agree with the experts who have voiced concerns about the RMG industry and the urgent need for policies that ensure its stability, with immediate emphasis on the need to establish a policy for textile waste (jhut) management.
The RMG sector continues to be our dominant export sector with no other comparable alternatives emerging, so it is vital that the recent political-economic tensions and labour unrest that have emerged pertaining to the industry are dealt with immediately.
Indeed, we must once again side with the experts who opined that a formal policy for jhut would not only support the transition to a circular economy - something that a nation such as Bangladesh must sooner rather than later fully embrace - but also help address the unrest currently affecting the RMG sector.
In the past, we have had much opaqueness and a severe lack of coordination and cooperation amongst different stakeholders within our most important sectors. However, moving forward, proper coordination between the relevant stakeholders pertaining to the RMG industry -- manufacturers, waste management companies, and brands -- is non-negotiable.
Bangladesh has undoubtedly made significant strides in establishing itself as a leader in sustainable garment manufacturing, boasting the highest number of eco-friendly factories worldwide.
To further the RMG sector’s momentum, it is imperative that we continue to be pro-active and at this time develop a cohesive national policy framework that ushers in a new era of sustainability for the RMG sector as a whole.
