Bangladesh's garment-making industry, once notorious for its environmental and human rights issues, is undergoing a significant transformation toward sustainability. The country now leads the world with 268 LEED-certified garment factories, surpassing all other nations in its commitment to environmentally friendly production. This shift marks a turning point for an industry previously associated with tragedies like the 2013 Rana Plaza collapse, which killed 1,134 people and injured approximately 2,500, and widespread pollution, particularly in rivers like the Buriganga, which receives wastewater from textile production.

The move towards greener practices involves a range of initiatives, including the adoption of resource-efficient technologies to minimize waste, conserve water, and enhance resilience against climate change and disruptions in global supply chains. Dye plants are transitioning to safer chemicals, tanneries are implementing cleaner tanning processes and treating wastewater, and factories are installing energy-efficient LED lighting and solar panels.

The garment industry is a cornerstone of the Bangladeshi economy, contributing significantly to the nation's GDP and employing millions of people, primarily women. However, its rapid growth has historically come at a cost, with concerns over worker safety, labor rights, and environmental degradation. The pollution of the Buriganga River, for example, with dyes, chemicals, and heavy metals such as lead and cadmium, has had severe consequences for both the environment and public health.

The push for sustainability is driven by a combination of factors, including pressure from international brands and consumers, government regulations, and a growing awareness within the industry itself of the need for change. International organizations and NGOs have also played a crucial role in providing technical assistance and promoting best practices.

The adoption of LEED certification, a globally recognized standard for green building design, construction, and operation, demonstrates Bangladesh's commitment to environmental stewardship. These certified factories adhere to strict criteria related to energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and indoor environmental quality.

While significant progress has been made, challenges remain. Ensuring that all factories, including smaller and informal operations, adopt sustainable practices is an ongoing effort. Continued investment in cleaner technologies, worker training, and robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms are essential to further advance the greening of Bangladesh's garment industry. The transformation represents a potential model for other developing nations seeking to balance economic growth with environmental and social responsibility.