He said the measures should take into account industry realities, technological capabilities and international competitiveness.
He made the remarks on Tuesday at a review meeting on key environmental issues concerning the readymade garment and textile industries, held in the conference room of the Department of Environment.
The meeting held detailed discussions on various important issues related to environmental management in the readymade garment and textile industries.
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association President Mahmud Hasan Khan, in a written proposal, highlighted these issues as well as various technical and practical challenges facing the industries in ensuring environmental compliance.
The environment minister said the readymade garment and textile industries make significant contributions to the country’s economy, employment and export earnings. At the same time, proper compliance with environmental laws and regulations must be ensured to make the production processes of these industries more environmentally friendly, resource-efficient and sustainable.
He added that all concerned parties must work in coordination to find rational and science-based solutions, taking into account the practical realities of the industries while keeping the goal of environmental protection intact.
State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam, who attended the meeting as special guest, said coordination between environmental protection and sustainable industrial development was essential.
Industrial establishments must play a more responsible role in adopting environmentally friendly technologies, using water and other natural resources efficiently and controlling pollution. He called for achievable targets to be set and attained gradually.
The meeting decided that discussions and technical coordination among the ministry, Department of Environment, industry associations and other stakeholders would continue to further strengthen environmental compliance in the readymade garment and textile industries.
International experts will be consulted on the use of effective chemicals in effluent treatment plants and incineration plants for sludge management. The issues raised will be reviewed taking into account relevant laws and regulations, technological feasibility and environmental protection requirements.
The meeting was chaired by Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry Acting Secretary Fahmida Khanam. Ministry Additional Secretary Mohammad Navid Shafiullah, other officials concerned, and representatives of the Department of Environment and Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association were among those present.
