Bangladesh, the world's second-largest exporter of garments, has significantly shaped the global fashion industry by supplying affordable, high-quality clothing. However, this achievement comes at an environmental cost. The country's ready-made garment (RMG) sector generates an estimated 400,000 tonnes of textile waste annually -- large share of which consists of high-quality surplus fabric from production lines. While some of this waste is exported to recycling hubs like India, much of it ends up in landfills or is incinerated, contributing to serious environmental hazards.
Amidst this challenge, a promising solution is emerging. Innovative startups are now working to turn this so-called "waste" into a valuable resource, aiming to drive sustainable fashion, create green jobs, and build environmental resilience. As the global fashion industry -- responsible for nearly 10 per cent of carbon emissions and vast resource consumption -- shifts towards sustainability, Bangladesh is uniquely positioned to lead through a circular textile economy.
By recovering and repurposing its textile waste, the country has the potential to generate up to $5.0 billion annually. This opportunity spans across recycled yarn production, repurposing initiatives, digital resale platforms, and eco-conscious fashion startups. Such a shift could create thousands of jobs in sorting, logistics, and design, and empower rural women and youth to become entrepreneurs in the green economy.
However, this transition requires strong foundations: structured waste management, transparent reporting, enhanced recycling infrastructure and robust policy support. If government bodies, industry leaders, and innovators act in concert, Bangladesh can evolve from a volume-driven exporter into a global leader in sustainable fashion.
This transformation proves that economic progress and environmental responsibility need not be at odds. The revolution has already begun. Now is the time for Bangladesh to embrace its role at the forefront of ethical fashion and circular economy.
Monem Shahriar
Gazipur
monem.anik@northsouth.edu
