Towards sustainable fashion

Bangladesh's thriving garment industry is a cornerstone of its economy, yet it produces over 400,000 tonnes of textile waste annually. While sustainability conversations often centre around energy or agriculture, textile waste management remains a largely overlooked issue-despite its immense potential.

Much of this waste ends up in landfills or is incinerated, releasing harmful toxins and carbon emissions. However, this discarded material can be repurposed into yarn, insulation, or even stylish up-cycled fashion. Embracing textile circularity would not only reduce environmental impact but also create new green jobs in recycling and design.

Encouragingly, several small enterprises in Dhaka and Chattogram are already using fabric scraps to craft sustainable items like patchwork bags and recycled denim. With proper government support-including incentives for green startups, skills training, and regulatory oversight-this practice can be scaled nationally. Furthermore, exporting up-cycled fashion could open doors to global markets increasingly focused on sustainability.

Rather than viewing textile waste as a liability, Bangladesh should recognise it as a resource ripe for innovation. With the right policy push, the nation can emerge as a leader in ethical fashion and sustainable industry.

Atikur Rahman

Student, BBA Department

North South University

atikur.rahman.nsuf@gmail.com