The apparel industry is the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy but also impacts significantly to environmental pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. To promote sustainable growth, the industry needs to improve energy efficiency and adopt initiatives that reduce pollution, enhance resilience, and promote sustainability. Improving energy efficiency and chemical management can lead to cost savings and reduced carbon emissions. However, challenges such as technological gaps and investment priorities hinder progress. Addressing these issues will enhance competitiveness in the global market while protecting the environment.

Solidaridad, a global network organization supported by the Dutch government, is implementing the “Reclaiming Sustainability” project to improve environmental sustainability, reduce pollution, and enhance resource efficiency in Bangladesh’s apparel industry. This initiative aims to develop a framework for cleaner production technologies and improved energy efficiency. Solidaridad has also created a policy paper on energy and modules on chemical management to reduce GHG emissions and optimize processes.

ESTex, a leading research and technology consultancy firm specialized in environmental sustainability, resource efficiency, and industrial innovation, has partnered with Solidaridad to validate these policy recommendations and chemical management modules with relevant stakeholders, including governing bodies, trade associations, fashion brands, and policymakers, to promote effective chemical management and smart energy planning for the sector.