UNB, Dhaka:

Six more readymade garment (RMG) factories of the country have achieved the recognition of the LEED certification this month, raising the number of the LEED certified factories to 226.

As of July this year, the number of the LEED certification factories was 220, with 14 factories earning the certification in the past seven months.

LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a globally recognised green building rating system that emphasises environmental responsibility and energy efficiency.

The recognition of the LEED certification refers to underscoring the country’s commitment to green initiatives within the garment sector, Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Director Mohiuddin Rubel told UNB.

Of the 226 certified factories, 89 have achieved the highest, platinum rating, 123 have earned gold, 10 silver and 4 are certified, as reported by the BGMEA.

The newly certified top two factories are Saadatia Sweaters Ltd located in Diakhali, Molla Bazar under Ashulia police station of Dhaka and Executive Greentex Ltd located in Mulaid area under Sreepur upazila of Gazipur, with achieving 91 and 69 scores in the platinum and gold categories respectively.

Bangladesh’s achievement positions the country as a leader in the global sustainable fashion movement, with 60 out of the 100 LEED-certified green factories worldwide located here, according to BGMEA.

This includes 18 out of the top 20 LEED-certified factories globally, based on BGMEA data.

The geographic distribution of these certifications within Bangladesh illustrates the RMG industry’s widespread commitment to sustainability.

Despite the challenges posed by the global economic landscape, along with the current national and geopolitical developments, Bangladesh’s RMG industry continues to demonstrate resilience and an unwavering commitment to sustainable growth.

This progress in achieving such a significant number of LEED certifications highlights the industry’s proactive approach to enhancing environmental sustainability and reinforcing its position as a reliable sourcing destination, said a BGMEA media release.

“We have consistently prioritised sustainability in our operations, ensuring that our growth is aligned with global best practices and environmental stewardship,” it added.