The government is set to confer the prestigious “Green Factory Award-2023” upon 29 distinguished companies representing 12 diverse sectors today. This accolade is a testament to their significant contributions in bolstering productivity through the utilization of skilled labor and eco-friendly technologies within safe working environments.
The sectors being recognized encompass woven and knitwear, leather (both finished goods and tannery), tea, cement, pharmaceuticals, tiles and ceramics, electric and electronics manufacturing, plastics, food processing, and textile industries.
The Ministry of Labour and Employment is orchestrating the ceremony, slated to take place at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka. State Minister for Labour and Employment, Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, revealed details of the event during a press conference held at Sromo Bhabon in Dhaka yesterday.
Under the esteemed patronage of Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, the Speaker of Jatiya Sangsad, each awardee is slated to receive Tk 1 lakh, a medal, a memento, and a certificate in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
This commendable initiative coincides with the “World Day for Safety and Health at Work” marked by the International Labour Organization (ILO) on April 28 annually. The objective is to globally promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases.
Following the ILO’s directives, Bangladesh has been actively observing this day by felicitating factories across various sectors for their commendable efforts in safeguarding workers’ health and environmental preservation.
In tandem with this celebration, the Ministry of Labour will organize a procession to raise awareness and commemorate the significance of the day.
Notably, Bangladesh boasts the highest number of “green” garment factories, certified by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). According to data from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association, there are a total of 215 certified factories, with 80 holding platinum ratings, 120 gold, 10 silver, and four green under the USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.
Furthermore, Bangladesh is home to 55 of the world’s top-rated green buildings out of the 100 recognized globally.
The impetus for greening factories gained momentum following the tragic Rana Plaza building collapse, prompting heightened compliance with regulations concerning workplace safety, health, environmental sustainability, and workers’ rights.
This transformational shift aligns with evolving consumer behaviors and purchasing patterns in Western markets, characterized by a growing awareness of environmental conservation and sustainability within global supply chains.