He said these things while speaking as the chief guest at a review meeting on environmental issues of the ready-made garment and textile sector held today, Tuesday, in the conference room of the Department of Environment.
At the meeting, detailed discussions were held on various issues including the color parameter of water discharged from ETPs, implementation of Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD), water reuse and the 3R policy (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle), reliability of environmental sample testing, mirror testing mechanism, renewal of environmental clearance, Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), noise pollution control, air pollution management, rainwater conservation, water reuse and reject water management. BGMEA President Mahmud Hasan Khan highlighted the technical and practical challenges of the industry in a written proposal on these issues.
The Environment Minister said the ready-made garment sector is playing an important role in the country's economy, employment and export earnings. However, to make this industry more environmentally friendly, resource-efficient and sustainable, environmental laws must be properly followed. Urging all parties to work in a coordinated manner, he said science-based solutions must be found taking into account the industry's reality while keeping the goal of environmental protection intact.
Deputy Minister for Environment Sheikh Faridul Islam, MP, said coordination between environmental protection and sustainable industrial development is essential. He urged industrial enterprises to adopt environmentally friendly technologies, ensure efficient use of resources, and play a more responsible role in pollution control.
The meeting decided that discussions and technical coordination among the ministry, the Department of Environment, industry organizations and relevant parties would continue to strengthen environmental compliance in the industry. International experts' opinions will be sought on the use of chemicals in ETPs and on establishing incineration plants for sludge management.
The meeting was chaired by Dr. Fahmida Khanam, Acting Secretary of the Ministry of Environment. Additional Secretary of the Ministry Mohammad Navid Shafiullah, officials of the Department of Environment and representatives of BGMEA participated.
