Apparel makers have stepped forward with practices of green technology which is consequently retaining manufacturing of eco-friendly products, making the images of the country’s apparel sector brighten before the world. The sector leaders, however, expressed hope of making the entire industry awarded with green certificate within few years. According to sources, 12 garment factories have received green certificate award from United States Green Building Council (USGBC). USGBC is a standard authority to provide green certificate in four categories — Leed, Leed Platinum, Leed Gold and Leed Silver. Twelve factories got the awards while 50 factories are in the queue to achieve it, BGMEA sources said. It was learnt that the fresh investors are preferring establishment of green building with green production to maintain eco-friendly manner in industrialisation. Reducing harmful emissions, improving energy efficiency, recycling byproducts and bettering waste management are the main criteria of receiving USGBC certificate. Among others, water and energy savings through the increased uses of solar power and the daylight are the main features of eco-friendly factories. It was learnt the renowned brands put emphasis on the factory environment and working condition. The Western consumers would also prefer buying products manufactured in factories sensitive to the environment. The retailers also prioritise the green products while advertising their products. As a result, the buyers also prefer the factories that are environment-friendly. Keeping it in mind, the investors have started setting up factories which are friendly with environment. The BGMEA leaders said around 150 factories will join in the queue of USGBC award by making the garment industry green and preferable for the buyers and consumers. Buyers in future will prefer placing work order to them that have compliance and hold green certificate, sadi Shahidullah Azim, Vice-President of BGMEA. Azim, who already established a green garment factory named Classic Fashion Concept Limited and received Leed Platinum certificate from USGBC, said such turning into green practices will put the industry into a new height. The sector insiders said the garment industry should start practicing green concept as the buyers in near future will prefer placing order to those who exercise green concepts. Khandakar Rafiqul Islam, Managing Director of Golden Refit Garments Limited and Director of BGMEA, said he has been taking preparation to apply USGBC for green certificate. He said establishing a green factory is much costlier than the traditional installation. But he is planning to establish green garment factory for the greater interest of being included to those that are getting preference.
Source: https://www.daily-sun.com/print/business/2015/04/18/498530#sthash.ZwnvyXno.dpuf
