Call for promoting sustainable business practices

Speakers at a forum have stressed the importance of promoting sustainable business practices, especially in the country's garment sector that plays a crucial role in driving Bangladesh's economic development and transition towards a developing nation.
They have also put emphasis on promoting decent work that focuses on a more ethical, equitable and environment-friendly industry.
The observations came from the Sustainable Apparel Forum (SAF) 2024 held at Radisson Blu Water Garden Hotel in the capital on Tuesday.
The Bangladesh Apparel Exchange in partnership with ILO-IFC Better Work Bangladesh and GIZ and WaterAid organised the programme.
Speaking at the opening session, Charles Whiteley, ambassador and head of delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh, said majority of Bangladesh's exports are destined to the EU.
The garment industry is facing a number of challenges, including decarburisation efforts, maintaining international labour standards, navigating uncertain global supply chain and price squeezes in the very difficult economic environment, he mentioned.
"Being the largest market for Bangladesh-made apparel, the EU is interested to promote sustainable business practices, especially in garment sector."
He explained that the garment sector plays a crucial role in driving Bangladesh's economic development and its transition from a least developed country status to a developing one by 2041.
"Development cooperation plays a crucial role in promoting ethical practices, environmental conservation and social inclusion within the apparel industry," Mr Whiteley noted.
He, however, suggested local suppliers look into the appetite for ethical consumption and consumer pattern in the EU market.
He said 21 per cent of EU citizens are deemed to be at risk of poverty and social exclusion.
In his opening remarks, Salman F Rahman, private industry and investment adviser to the Prime Minister, emphasised the industry's critical role in the country's economic growth and underscored the importance of continuous innovation and sustainable practices.
"The apparel industry is pivotal to Bangladesh's economic growth and development. However, to sustain this momentum, we must prioritise sustainability and ethical practices," he said.
"Collaboration between the government, industry, and international partners is essential to address the apparel industry's challenges and drive meaningful change," said Avijit Chowdhury, executive member (additional secretary) of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA).
"Decent work is fundamental to sustainable development. By prioritising fair wages, safe working environments and opportunities for career advancement, we can ensure the well-being of workers and the long-term success of the industry," ILO Bangladesh country-director Tuomo Poutiainen said.
Speaking at another session, he said they are working for modernising the accident protection system in Bangladesh jointly with the apparel sector trade bodies - the BGMEA, the BKMEA, the government, trade unions and brands.
Mr Poutiainen stressed on developing a national wage policy system that is based on inflation and competitive prices and wage.
Speaking at the session, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) vice-president Miran Ali said, "Sustainability is not just a moral imperative. It's also a business imperative. By adopting eco-friendly practices and ethical standards, we can enhance our competitiveness and secure a prosperous future for the industry."
Providing a voice for workers, Mesbahuddin Ahmed, president of the National Coordination Committee for Workers' Education (NCCWE), called for greater empowerment and representation.
"Workers are the backbone of the apparel industry. It's crucial that their voices are heard, and their rights are protected," he added.
Amirul Haque Amin, president of the IndustriAll Bangladesh Council, said, "Tripartism, coupled with the involvement of international buyers, is very important for fostering harmony and sustainability within the apparel industry."
"Through collaboration and innovation, we're shaping a future where sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand in Bangladesh's apparel industry," said Mostafiz Uddin, founder and CEO of the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange.
There were also nine sessions on a number of topics, including decent Work conditions and livelihood in the RMG Industry, perspectives on the roles of women workers and supervisory practices, future opportunities in sustainable innovation and sustainable use of water in the apparel sector.

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