Bangladesh’s apparel manufacturers have entered into sustainable manufacturing practices by establishing eco-friendly factories and introducing energy-efficient technologies.

Sustainable manufacturing refers to the creation of manufactured products through economically-sound processes that minimise negative environmental impacts while conserving energy and natural resources.

Global consumers are becoming more and more cautious on the environment and global retailers are looking for suppliers of apparel produced in eco-friendly factories. Textile and woven manufacturers have already introduced green technology that consume less water, chemical and electricity.

If the apparel sector invest in green manufacturing to take the lead in sustainable manufacturing, this would act as a catalyst to achieve the 50 billion dollar export target.

Using laser technology instead of the traditional method in making a pair of jeans can reduce the use of water by 30 to 40 per cent and chemical use by 20 to 30 per cent. Laser technology is seen as very precise and more productive using the same number of workers. It also poses a reduced health hazard since a smaller amount of chemicals is used in the process.

Bangladesh wants to capture a bigger share of the global readymade garment market. Currently, Bangladesh’s share is 6.4 per cent.