Bangladesh’s progress in sustainable manufacturing gained further momentum as three additional garment factories secured LEED certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

With these new additions, the total number of certified readymade garment units in the country has reached 243, according to the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).Of the 243 green garment factories in Bangladesh, 101 are rated platinum, 128 gold, 10 silver and four are certified.

In May, Gazipur-based Tasniah Fabrics Limited (admin building) earned a platinum certificate from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) under the LEED O+M: Existing Building v4 rating system, scoring 82 points.

In the same month, Tasniah Fabrics (RMG building), also located in Gazipur, received a platinum certificate under the same rating system with a score of 81.

Meanwhile, Dhaka-based Confit Golden Leaf achieved a platinum certificate under the LEED O+M: Existing Building v4.1 rating system, scoring 82 points.

So far, 66 of the world’s top 100 LEED-certified factories—including nine of the top 10 and 18 of the top 20—are located in Bangladesh.

This remarkable success is expected to attract new investment and partnerships, further reinforcing Bangladesh’s position as a hub for sustainable manufacturing.

According to industry insiders, a total of 550 factories in Bangladesh are currently awaiting LEED certification from the USGBC. The country has been securing these certifications since 2011.

The USGBC awards LEED certifications based on several criteria, including energy performance, water and waste management, and overall transformation. Platinum is the highest rating, followed by gold and silver.

Industry experts note that while green factories may involve higher initial investment, they significantly reduce operational costs over time and provide safer working conditions for employees.

Former BGMEA director Mohiuddin Rubel said that the steady growth of LEED-certified factories reflected Bangladesh’s firmly established position at the forefront of global sustainable industrial practices.

He said that this also underscores the RMG sector’s strategic shift towards green growth, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible manufacturing.

‘As the world increasingly prioritises ESG performance and sustainability in supply chains,’ Rubel said, ‘this milestone enhances Bangladesh’s global image, opens new market opportunities, and sets a new benchmark for green building excellence in the sector.’