“Sustainability has become a global imperative, affecting all players in the apparel industry,” said Charles Whiteley, ambassador and head of the Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh.
He made this statement on Tuesday during a program titled “Sustainable Apparel Forum 2024.”
He also notes that customers are willing to pay the pricing if clothing is manufactured sustainably in the future. An EU study revealed intriguing results that align with consumers’ expectations of environmental protection even in the face of cost obstacles, according to the ambassador.
Referring to the study, he informed that younger generations from rich countries are willing to pay the prices of the products that are made in an environment-friendly and socially compliant way.
“The markets will change if consumers become more dominant in the EU and other markets; that’s our future,” he added.
Salman Fazlur Rahman, Private Industry and Investment Adviser to the Prime Minister, was present as the chief guest at the opening session of the event. He emphasised the industry’s vital role in the nation’s economic expansion and the significance of ongoing innovation and environmentally friendly practices.
“According to a recent survey, it showed that 21% of EU citizens are deemed to be at risk of poverty and social exclusion. That is something to factor in when you look at EU markets, and hopefully, that picture will improve,” said Charles Whiteley.
“Bangladesh’s garment industry has achieved remarkable feats in recent years and has the most environmentally friendly garment industries worldwide, demonstrating that we can reap green benefits from the investments,” he further stated.
“The growth and development of Bangladesh’s economy are closely linked to the apparel industry. But to maintain this momentum, sustainability and moral behavior must come first,” Whiteley continued.
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