Bangladesh making progress in sustainable apparel manufacturing with ambitious goals and industry collaboration

From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-26 08:10:00

Cascale’s report on Bangladesh highlights the country’s potential to align with the Industry Decarbonization Roadmap, aiming to cut GHG emissions by 45% by 2030. The report emphasizes Bangladesh’s progress in sustainability, with ambitious goals and a focus on eco-friendly practices and industry collaboration.

Bangladesh ranks second globally in garment exports after China, with 7.4% market share. The apparel sector contributes over 80% to national exports and employs 4m people, mostly women. Cascale’s director stresses the importance of investing in worker health, safety, fair labor practices, and skill development to protect the industry’s workforce.

The textile and garment industries are driving Bangladesh’s economic growth, with a GDP of $451bn in 2024 and a projected 3.8% growth rate in 2025. The Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has set Sustainability Vision 2030 goals, including GHG reduction, sustainable materials use, renewable energy reliance, and chemical discharge elimination.

Bangladesh leads globally with over 240 LEED-certified green garment factories and aims for more sustainability efforts throughout the supply chain. Challenges remain in transitioning to green energy, but investments in solar, bioenergy, and energy-efficient technologies are growing. The government’s Renewable Energy Policy aims to reduce fuel imports and promote sustainable energy sources while balancing economic growth.

Newly appointed BGMEA president Mahmud Hasan Khan Babu raises concerns about the impact of the Iran-Israel conflict on the RMG industry. The industry’s sustainability efforts are crucial for Bangladesh’s future in apparel manufacturing. The country faces hurdles in green energy transition but is making strides towards a more sustainable future.

Read more: Bangladesh on path to sustainable apparel manufacture