Extreme heat and flooding could lead to a loss of over US $ 65 billion in export earnings and nearly one million jobs by 2030, affecting major production hubs including Bangladesh, reveals a study.
In collaboration with Mapped in Bangladesh (MiB) and Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labour Relations (ILR) Global Labour Institute (GLI), Cornell University and Schroders conducted a study titled “Climate Resilience and Fashion’s Costs of Adaptation” that highlights the severe effects of climate change on Bangladeshi apparel production hubs as well as those in Cambodia, Pakistan, and Vietnam.
“By 2030, these regions could face a substantial loss of nearly US $ 65 billion in export earnings and almost 1 million jobs due to climate-induced disruptions,” reads a press release.
Executive Director of GLI Jason Judd presented the study’s findings at an event in Dhaka today, 28th February.
According to the announcement, the study also looked at the supply chains of six major global clothing brands and demonstrated how harsh weather affects manufacturers and labour.
The study’s analysis also highlights the high danger of heatwaves and flooding in 32 locations that are hubs for the production of clothing; to lessen the effects on manufacturers and labourers, social protection programmes and funding for climate adaptation may be necessary.
In order to protect garment workers from the effects of climate change, Judd urged for the establishment of social protection measures and the commitment of climate adaptation money.
The lecture emphasised the necessity of a coordinated approach, encompassing both domestic and international negotiations, to tackle the obstacles encountered by the clothing industry.
