Staff Correspondent

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintu, MP, has stressed the need for effective and timely steps to ensure environmental compliance in the readymade garment (RMG) and textile sectors, taking into account industrial realities, technological capabilities, and international competitiveness.

He made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing a review meeting on key environmental issues in the RMG and textile industries, held at the conference room of the Department of Environment (DoE) in Dhaka.

The meeting covered detailed discussions on critical environmental management aspects, including Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) colour parameters, Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) implementation, water reuse, the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle) policy, reliability of environmental sampling and testing, mirror testing mechanisms, environmental clearance renewals, Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) installation, generator noise control, air pollution management, rainwater harvesting, water recycling, water efficiency, and reject water management.

Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) President Mahmud Hasan Khan presented a written proposal highlighting various technical and practical challenges faced by the sector.

Highlighting the sector's crucial contribution to the national economy, employment, and export earnings, the minister stated that strict adherence to environmental laws and regulations is essential to make production processes greener, resource-efficient, and sustainable.

Speaking as special guest, Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam, MP, emphasized combining environmental protection with sustainable industrial development.

Chaired by Acting Secretary of the Ministry Dr. Fahmida Khanam, the meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain continuous technical coordination among the ministry, DoE, trade associations, and other stakeholders. It was also decided to seek international expert opinion regarding incineration plants for sludge management and the effective use of chemicals in ETPs.

Additional Secretary Mohammad Navid Shafiullah, along with high-level officials from the ministry, DoE, and BGMEA representatives, attended the meeting.