BANGLADESH鈥橲 apparel sector has long been the backbone of the economy, employing millions and accounting for over 80 per cent of the country鈥檚 total exports. However, the global apparel market is changing. Buyers no longer prioritise just low-cost production; sustainability has become a key factor. As international brands push for ethical and eco-friendly sourcing, Bangladesh must act fast. Investing in green factories is no longer optional 鈥� it is essential for staying competitive in the global market.
Bangladesh has already made significant progress in sustainable manufacturing. With over 200 LEED-certified factories, the country is leading the world in green garment production. These factories reduce carbon emissions, optimise energy use, and conserve water 鈥� aligning with the sustainability goals of major brands. Buyers are actively seeking suppliers with environmentally responsible practices, and Bangladesh has a great opportunity to meet this demand.
However, not all factories have embraced this transition. While some have adopted green technology, many are still operating under traditional, resource-heavy methods. If the entire industry does not move towards sustainability, Bangladesh risks losing export orders to countries like Vietnam, India, and China, where green manufacturing is rapidly expanding.
The pressure for sustainability is coming from multiple directions. International regulations, rising production costs, and changing consumer preferences all point to one conclusion: green factories are the future. Here鈥檚 why Bangladesh must accelerate its investment in sustainable manufacturing.
Global markets are tightening environmental regulations. The EU Green Deal and Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will impose higher tariffs on products that do not meet sustainability standards. If Bangladesh does not align with these policies, its garment exports could face trade restrictions, making it difficult to compete with greener suppliers.
Although setting up a green factory requires an initial investment, it brings significant long-term savings. Many LEED-certified factories in Bangladesh have reported, according to Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, a 30 per cent reduction in energy costs and up to 50 per cent lower water consumption. With rising electricity prices and water scarcity becoming a growing concern, sustainability-driven cost savings can improve profit margins and overall efficiency.
Additionally, Bangladesh鈥檚 reputation as a leading garment exporter depends on ethical sourcing. Modern consumers want transparency 鈥� they want to know that the clothes they buy are not harming the planet. International brands are under pressure to ensure their supply chains meet sustainability targets, making factories with LEED, OEKO-TEX, and GOTS certifications more attractive partners. Investing in green factories is not just about compliance; it is about securing long-term relationships with global buyers.
Finally, the competitive landscape is shifting. Vietnam and India are heavily investing in eco-friendly manufacturing, while China is integrating advanced green technology into its textile industry. If Bangladesh does not act quickly, it risks losing its edge in the global market. Sustainable production is no longer just an advantage 鈥� it is a necessity to survive.
Many factories hesitate to go green due to the high cost of certification and a lack of technical expertise. To support this transition, the government should introduce tax incentives and low-interest loans to help factories invest in sustainable technology. Financial assistance would allow small and medium-sized manufacturers to install solar energy systems, wastewater recycling units, and energy-efficient machinery without straining their budgets.
Industry leaders must also collaborate with international sustainability organisations to gain technical knowledge and funding. Many global brands are willing to support suppliers in their green transformation, and Bangladesh should take full advantage of these opportunities.
Factories must also rethink their approach to production. Investing in renewable energy, optimising water usage, and improving waste management will not only lower costs but also enhance Bangladesh鈥檚 reputation as a responsible manufacturing hub. Some factories have already proven that sustainability leads to greater efficiency and profitability. Now, the entire sector must follow suit.
The global apparel market is evolving, and Bangladesh cannot afford to fall behind. Green factories are no longer just an option 鈥� they are the future of the apparel sector. By making the shift now, Bangladesh can secure its position as a world leader in sustainable apparel manufacturing, attract more buyers, and ensure the long-term success of its garment industry.
The question is not whether we should invest in green factories, but how fast we can make it happen. The future of Bangladesh鈥檚 garment industry depends on the choices we make today.
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Asif Hossain, a graduate of the BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology, is a merchandiser at the Urmi Group.