Villostas, Laica Joy C.

BTVTED-GFD 3201

INTEGRITY IN THE GARMENTS INDUSTRY

The rich set of policies and laws that Bangladesh has should provide should be a strong
backing for better wastewater management for the garment industry.

Enforcement is too weak however. Weak governance has resulted in undue influence on
state institutions to achieve growth rather than sustainable environment management
practices.

For the country to reach its ambitious SDG goals, it will be crucial to address these
challenges.

The government must enforce its rules and make sure industries comply.

There is space for an advisory and regulatory watchdog in this sector to oversee activities
and make suggestions for improvements, undertake advocacy campaigns, and enforce action
against violations.

Factories have corporate social and environmental responsibilities and they should
comply with rules that can be rewarding and sustainable for them.

The international agencies that are investing in the improvement of governance in the
garment sector and reputed global brands that source their garments from the country need to
take this issue up urgently to ensure that public health, workers' rights, and healthy ecosystems
are protected and need to contribute to strengthening integrity within the garment industry.

Political commitment, skilled human resources, and institutional capacity are all required
to ensure proper enforcement of rules and regulations for pollution control and protection of
the environment.