The Reality of Sustainability in the Textile Industry The textile industry is a significant contributor to environmental pollution, with a vast array of chemicals and dyes used in the production process. The industry is responsible for 20% of global wastewater production, and a significant portion of that wastewater is untreated and released back into waterways. The production of textiles also requires large quantities of water and energy, further depleting natural resources and contributing to climate change. The textile industry is also known for its unethical labor practices, with workers in many countries paid very low wages and subjected to poor working conditions. This has led to calls for greater transparency and accountability in the industry, with consumers demanding to know more about the origins of the clothes they buy. Challenges in Achieving Sustainability in the Textile Industry There are several challenges to achieving sustainability in the textile industry. One of the most significant challenges is the complexity of the supply chain. The textile industry involves multiple stakeholders, from raw material suppliers to manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers. It can be difficult to trace the origin of materials and ensure that they are produced ethically and sustainably. This complexity also makes it challenging to implement sustainability practices throughout the entire supply chain. Another challenge is the cost of implementing sustainable practices. While sustainable practices may be more environmentally friendly and socially responsible, they can be more expensive to implement. This can make it difficult for smaller companies to compete with larger corporations that may have more resources to invest in sustainable practices. Consumer awareness and behavior also play a significant role in achieving sustainability in the textile industry. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of the clothes they buy and are demanding more sustainable options. However, many consumers still prioritize affordability and convenience over sustainability, making it challenging for companies to make sustainable choices economically viable. Addressing the Challenges Despite the challenges, there are several ways in which the textile industry can work towards sustainability. One approach is to implement sustainable practices throughout the supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to the disposal of products. This can involve reducing water and energy consumption, using sustainable materials, and reducing waste. Another approach is to increase transparency and accountability in the industry. This can involve tracking the origin of materials and ensuring that they are produced sustainably and ethically. It can also involve providing consumers with information about the environmental and social impact of the clothes they buy, empowering them to make more sustainable choices.

1. SUSTAINABILITY IN THE
TEXTILE INDUSTRY IN
BANGLADESH
R E A L I T Y A N D C H A L L A N G E S

3. WHAT IS
SUSTAINABILITY
IN TEXTILE
INDUSTRY?
Sustainability consists of fulfilling the
needs of current generations without
compromising the needs of future
generations while ensuring a balance
between economic growth,
environmental care, and social well-
being.

4. IMPORTANCE OF
SUSTAINABILITY IN
THE TEXTILE
INDUSTRY
Bangladesh’s Textile and Apparel (T&A) industry are
becoming more and more important not only for
the country’s economy but also as a major supplier
of ready-wear apparel to the global market with the
second highest capacity in apparel and a fast-
growing textile base.

5. PRINCIPLES TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABILITY IN TEXTILE INDUSTRY
1. Resource optimization
2.Social Inclusion
Resource optimisation is a collective term
used to describe the methods for ensuring
that labour and non-labour resources are
matched to the schedule.
Social inclusion is important for a person's
dignity, security and opportunity to lead a
better life.

6. PRINCIPLES TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABILITY
3.Value Addition
4.Sustainable Manufacturing
In business, total value added is calculated
by tabulating the unit value added per each
unit of product sold. Thus, total value added
is equivalent to revenue minus intermediate
consumption.
Sustainable Manufacturing is defined as
the creation of manufactured products
that use processes that are non-polluting,
conserve energy and natural resources
5.Environmental Hazard Migration

7. CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME
To transform from a low price RMG producing
industry to a producer of value-added items
Invest in independent R&D and improve industry-
institute collaborations
Improve the innovative capacity of the industries
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8. CHALLENGES TO OVERCOME
Emphasize the development of the technological
fundamentals of the industry – looking for more
sustainable technology options
The biggest challenge is to achieve sustainability
without losing competitiveness in the market
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