AEPC and GBIC sign pact for eco-friendly garment manufacturing

The collaboration is aimed at increasing the number of garment factories in India that achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.

The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has entered into an agreement with the Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI) to promote sustainable manufacturing practices within the Indian garment industry.

The collaboration is aimed at increasing the number of garment factories in India that achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification. LEED is an internationally recognised rating system that evaluates a building’s environmental performance, focusing on energy efficiency, resource conservation, and the promotion of healthier indoor environments.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by AEPC Secretary General Mithileshwar Thakur and Gopalakrishnan P, Managing Director of GBCI for the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions.

Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, reiterated the garment sector’s commitment to sustainability. He highlighted that LEED certification signifies reduced resource consumption, a lower carbon footprint, and better air quality within factories. He further noted that such certification also brings down operational costs, enhances property value, and boosts investor confidence. Sekhri expressed confidence that an increasing number of garment factories in India would pursue LEED certification in the near future.

Meanwhile, Thakur observed that India currently has only 13 garment factories with LEED certification, compared to approximately 250 in Bangladesh. He emphasised the growing global focus on sustainability among reputed brands and stressed the urgency for Indian manufacturers to adopt such practices in order to remain competitive in the international market.

News source: Business Standard