With an objective of promoting sustainability built-environment through efficient use of energy, water, waste, and selection of advanced technology for monitoring and increase the number of LEED certified garment factories in India; AEPC signed a MoU with Green Business Certification Institute Pvt Ltd (GBCI) last week.
This Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General AEPC and Shri Gopalakrishnan P Managing Director – GBCI Asia Pacific and Middle East.
Emphasizing the importance of the MoU, Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman AEPC stated that, “The Indian garment industry is committed to promote sustainable practices much more than ever before. The LEED certification indicates reduced resource consumption, lower carbon footprint and improved air quality within the factory. 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.”
Speaking on the occasion Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General AEPC stated that, “We only have 13 LEED certified garment factories in India as against around 250 in Bangladesh. LEED certification is a globally recognized rating system for evaluating a building’s environment performance and sustainability and indicates building’s adherence to green building principles promoting energy efficiency, resource conservation and healthier indoor environments. 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.”
Shri Gopalakrishnan P Managing Director – – GBCI Asia Pacific and Middle East said, “GBCI India provides on-the-ground customer support for regional green building and business project teams. This operational hub positions GBCI to deliver full-service onsite certification and verification for the organisation’s sustainability efforts.” GBCI works with business and government officials to help address and meet the priority needs of a rapidly urbanizing India. It is the premier organisation independently recognizing excellence in green business industry performance and practice globally, he added.
The vision is to promote, support and facilitate the Indian apparel industry to enhance its competitive advantage and global positioning in a holistic and sustainable way that is beneficial to all stakeholders of the industry.
“AEPC is executing its mission of promoting sustainability, transparency, traceability, human welfare, social compliances, and global social standards within the industry by partnering with like-minded organizations including those who put emphasis on social accountability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects,” SG AEPC underlined.
The areas of cooperation with GBCI will include information exchange and knowledge sharing, promoting publications and research including technical manuals, creating awareness.
