AEPC Partners With GBCI To Promote Sustainable Manufacturing

New Delhi, May 19 (KNN) The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has entered into an agreement with the Green Business Certification Institute (GBCI) aimed at fostering sustainable manufacturing practices within India's garment industry.

The collaboration seeks to increase the number of Indian garment factories obtaining LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, a globally recognised standard that evaluates buildings for environmental performance and sustainability.

LEED certification reflects adherence to green practices including energy efficiency, resource conservation, and healthier indoor environments.

AEPC Secretary General Mithileshwar Thakur and Gopalakrishnan P, Managing Director of GBCI Asia Pacific and Middle East, formalised the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding.

Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman, AEPC, emphasised the Indian garment sector's commitment to sustainability, noting, "The LEED certification indicates reduced resource consumption, lower carbon footprint and improved air quality within the factory.”

He highlighted, “Additionally, it lowers the operating cost, increases the property value and improves investors' confidence. I am sure more and more factories will go for this certification in times to come."

Highlighting the need for improvement, Thakur observed that India currently has only 13 LEED-certified garment factories, compared to approximately 250 in Bangladesh.

"There is a greater emphasis from the reputed brands globally on sustainability and we need to quickly catch the boat for staying competitive in the international market," he stated.

(KNN Bureau)