DHAKA, Dec 31, 2024 (BSS) - Bangladesh’s ready-made garment (RMG) industry continues to set global benchmarks for sustainability, with 232 LEED-certified factories as of 2024.

This achievement underscores the sector’s leadership in green manufacturing and its alignment with emerging global sustainability standards.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is more than a badge of honor; it is a commitment to sustainable practices that prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, reduced carbon emissions, and improved indoor environmental quality.

The 2024 Milestone: A Data-Driven Perspective This year alone, 26 factories received LEED certification, with 16 achieving Platinum and 10 securing Gold. These new certifications represent 11% of the total LEED-certified factories in Bangladesh, a significant annual contribution to the country’s sustainability portfolio.

Certification Trends: Platinum-certified factories (92 total) now account for 40% of all LEED-certified factories in the country. Gold-certified factories (126 total) make up 54 percent. The remaining 6% are Silver and Certified levels combined, reflecting the industry’s focus on higher-tier certifications.

Year-on-Year Growth: The addition of 26 factories in 2024 marks a 9% increase compared to 2023. Over the past decade, the number of LEED-certified factories has grown by an average of 20 factories per year, with a notable acceleration in Platinum certifications in recent years.

Industry insiders said significance of the milestone is particularly significant as it demonstrates the sector’s proactive adaptation to global sustainability trends.

Platinum-certified factories, which represent the highest standard of green building, underscore the RMG industry’s dedication to achieving excellence in energy efficiency, water conservation, and waste management.

Gold-certified factories while slightly less rigorous, also highlight substantial achievements in reducing environmental impact and improving resource utilization.

Talking to BSS, Mohiuddin Rubel, Additional Managing Director, Denim Expert Limited and Former Director, BGMEA said that this achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of manufacturers, industry leaders, and policymakers.

“It also reflects the growing demand from international buyers for sustainable sourcing, encouraging factories to invest in green technologies and certifications to remain competitive,” he added.

With these 26 certifications, the industry has set a new benchmark for what is possible in sustainable manufacturing.

Rubel said that Bangladesh’s RMG sector has proven that sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand. As international regulations evolve, the country’s LEED-certified factories serve as a model for how industries can adapt, thrive, and lead in the global green economy.

“The journey is challenging but promising, and Bangladesh is well-positioned to lead the way,” he added.