Fakir Fashion Ltd has launched its first sustainability report titled “Greener by Design,” marking a significant step toward advancing sustainable practices in Bangladesh’s apparel sector.
The report was unveiled on April 8 at the Grand Ballroom of Sheraton Dhaka, with participation from industry leaders, development partners, and representatives of global brands.
At a panel discussion themed “From Compliance to Competitive Advantage: Leading Bangladesh’s Evolution into a Global Sustainable Apparel Hub,” speakers emphasized that sustainability is no longer limited to compliance but has become a critical driver of competitiveness in global markets.
Representatives from leading brands, including H&M and Inditex, highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing sustainable practices with business growth. Delegates from C&A, Tom Tailor, New Yorker, NEXT, and El Corte Inglés were also present.
Key Sustainability Achievements
According to the report, Fakir Fashion has achieved measurable progress across major sustainability indicators:
- 19% reduction in waste
- 75% decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity
- 13% reduction in energy consumption
- Harvesting of 11.7 million litres of rainwater
- Continued investment in workforce development
Industry insiders say these achievements reflect a broader transformation within Bangladesh’s apparel sector, where sustainability is increasingly viewed as a strategic advantage.
Industry Perspectives
International Labour Organization Country Director Max Tunon stated that adherence to social and environmental standards is not a cost but a long-term business benefit, urging collective action to protect the environment.
Mohammad Hasan Arif of the Export Promotion Bureau highlighted the resilience of Bangladesh’s exports, which contribute around $40 billion annually, and called for stronger focus on ESG initiatives and man-made fibers.
Meanwhile, Mohammad Hatem of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association noted that Fakir Fashion has set a milestone by publishing a sustainability report under a joint initiative, underscoring the growing importance of environmental and social accountability.
Managing Director Fakir Kamruzzaman Nahid said, “Our promise is simple: to build sustainable clothes for a sustainable future.”
