Bangladesh has further cemented its status as a global leader in sustainable apparel manufacturing with the recent LEED certification of two more ready-made garment (RMG) factories. The announcement was made by the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).
With these new certifications, the total number of LEED-certified factories in Bangladesh has risen to 237, which includes 95 platinum-rated, 128 gold-rated, 10 silver-rated, and four certified factories. The new additions, Columbia Apparels Ltd and Banga Fashion Ltd, both located in Gazipur, have achieved impressive scores of 77 and 87, respectively, under the LEED O+M: Existing Building v4.1 rating system.
Notably, 63 of the world’s top 100 LEED-certified factories are situated in Bangladesh, comprising nine of the top 10 and 18 of the top 20. This achievement is anticipated to draw new investments and partnerships, further enhancing the nation’s role as a sustainable manufacturing hub.
The US Green Building Council (USGBC) evaluates factories on various criteria, including energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management. Factories that excel in these areas receive platinum certification, followed by gold and silver.
While the initial investment in green factories may be higher, industry experts highlight that they significantly reduce operational costs over time and provide a safer working environment for employees. Former BGMEA director Mohiuddin Rubel stated that the increase in LEED certifications showcases the sector’s proactive approach to sustainability and responsible manufacturing.
Rubel emphasised that with continued collaboration and dedication, the Bangladesh RMG sector is poised for even greater achievements in sustainable production. He noted that with the growing global demand for eco-friendly clothing, Bangladesh is well-positioned to meet these consumer needs through LEED certification.
The shift towards green factory buildings has also been instrumental in restoring Bangladesh’s global reputation following the Rana Plaza tragedy, which claimed the lives of 1,134 individuals and injured over 2,000.
