Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has been honoured with the 2021 USGBC Leadership Award for its exemplary leadership in developing Bangladesh as the home of the highest number of green garment factories in the world.

The news of the accomplishment was shared by BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at a program held at BGMEA office in Dhaka on 12 June.

BGMEA Vice President Md. Shahidullah Azim, Directors Barrister Shehrin Salam Oishee and Md. Mohiuddin Rubel were also present at the program.

Earlier, the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) announced the name of BGMEA as its 2021 USGBC Leadership Award recipient during the USGBC Live virtual conference on 10 June. The USGBC Leadership Awards recognize and reward the efforts of individuals and organizations who contribute to the creation of sustainable, healthier, equitable and resilient buildings, cities and communities.

BGMEA, as the pivotal body governing the apparel industry, is leading the way to reduce the environmental costs of production in the apparel sector, by ensuring more than 600 participating LEED projects spanning around 130 million square feet from Bangladesh.

Faruque Hassan said, “As the country’s pioneering export industry, the RMG industry holds the responsibility of running the engine of economic growth of the country. But while we do it, we cannot stay indifferent to the negative externalities of growth especially when it comes to environment.”

“I believe the new generation entrepreneurs will carry this success and take it to different heights. I used to say sustainability is not a sprint, it’s a marathon and by no way we should lose the race.”