Bangladesh sets new record with 36 factories earning LEED certification in a year

The Bangladesh apparel industry has achieved a new global milestone in sustainable manufacturing with 36 factories earning international environmental compliance certifications in a single year.

The record-breaking achievement in 2025 surpasses the previous high of 30 certifications awarded in 2022, solidifying Bangladesh’s position as a global leader in green garment production, reports UNB.

According to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), the latest tally is highlighted by 22 factories receiving the highest-level ‘LEED Platinum’ certification, further strengthening Bangladesh’s commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable operations.

These prestigious certifications are awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) under its globally recognized Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) system.

To obtain the certification, facilities must meet rigorous environmental standards that evolve over time and across different versions of the rating system.

LEED certification levels are determined by a score out of a total of 110 points: LEED Platinum:80+ points, Gold:60–79 points, Silver: 50–59 points, Certified:40–49 points.

With this recent surge, Bangladesh now boasts a total of 268 LEED-certified garment factories. The vast majority are concentrated in the top tiers, reflecting a commitment to superior environmental standards:

Among these, 114 factories Platinum factories, 135 gold factories, 15 silver factories and 4 certified factories in Bangladesh.

Significantly, 68 of the world’s top 100 highest-rated LEED-certified factories are located in Bangladesh, underscoring the sector’s global benchmark status in sustainable manufacturing.

Mohiuddin Rubel, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Apparel Exchange and Additional Managing Director of Denim Expert Limited, said that this achievement is a clear reflection of the Bangladesh apparel industry’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and eco-friendly production.

“We are now setting a positive example for the world,” he added.