Towards Net-Zero by 2050: Dialogue and Exhibition on ESG initiatives for Sustainable RMG Sector Held in Dhaka
A day-long dialogue and exhibition was held in Dhaka to promote a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive ready-made garment (RMG) sector in Bangladesh, while advancing environmental and social compliance standards. The event was organized under the PROGRESS project (Promoting Green Growth in the Ready-Made Garments Sector through Skills), funded by the Embassy of Sweden and the Embassy of Switzerland, and implemented by Swisscontact Bangladesh. Over 200 participants attended, including factory owners, international clothing brand representatives, local advisory service providers, industry associations, financial institute, technology service providers, NGOs, and development partners.
Delivering the opening remarks for the event, Helal Hussain, Country Director of Swisscontact Bangladesh, emphasized the critical importance of sustainable production for the future of RMG sector. Henoted that,“ESG compliance is no longer optional; it is essential for remaining competitive in the global supply chain. This green transition is not just about compliance; it is also about climate, as Bangladesh is one of the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. To stay competitive in the global market, we must be part of the solution – reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and building resilience into production systems.”
Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, Head of Cooperation (in-charge) of the Embassy of Sweden in Dhaka,in her welcome address stated: “Sustainability is not just a destination; it is a shared journey. Climate change in Bangladesh affects everything, everywhere, all at once. It is therefore crucial to view these standards holistically and assess how our industries and businesses contribute to sustainability.”
She further added, “We are committed to being part of the fashion industry’s journey to achieve net-zero by 2050. This is achievable if we all work together. The process would be even more effective if regulatory authorities actively participate in these discussions.”
During the event, five sustainability reports from different factories, published with support from PROGRESS, were unveiled. One of the factory representatives, M. Wahiduzzaman, General Manager of Al-Islam Garmentshighlighted the importance of transparency and continuous improvement in sustainability practices. He further added, “By focusing on safe workplace, fair labor practices and environmental responsibility, we affirm our role in uplifting our employees, communities and the planet.” The exhibition also featured booths from local advisory service providers, and a dialogue session emphasizing on the need for local capacity development for sustainable growth of the RMG sector in Bangladesh. This was followed by a high-level panel discussion with panelists including industry experts, representatives from international brands, development partners, advisory service providers, and academia.
The panel focused on “Navigating the Path to Net-Zero by 2050: A Reality Check for the RMG Sector”. Experts highlighted that increasing the use of renewable energy, unlocking sustainable financing opportunities, and joint responsibility between brands and factories, supported by local technical service providers, are crucial for Bangladesh’s RMG sector to remain globally competitive.
Currently, renewable energy accounts for only 5.71% of Bangladesh’s electricity mix. The government aims to increase this to 40% by 2041 and achieve carbon neutrality in the power sector by 2050. Panelists at the event emphasized that progress in the RMG sector is essential to meet these national goals. They urged factories to adopt sustainable technologies, develop skilled human resources, and invest in green solutions without delay.
