In a milestone moment for the Bangladesh RMG industry and its pursuit of industrial sustainability in South Asia, the largest and first of its kind Water Reuse and Improved Wastewater Management Demonstration Site was launched today, at an event co-hosted by Primark, Fakir Knitwears Ltd., and The World Bank’s 2030 Water Resources Group.
The new facility, located within the factory premises of Fakir Knitwears Ltd. in Narayanganj, stands as a pioneering model of sustainable industrial practice. The core goal of the project is to reduce 30% of fresh groundwater extraction, directly supporting Bangladesh’s Sustainability Water Roadmap 2030 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
This project will enable the annual reuse of 438,000 cubic meters of water, reducing production water consumption by 22%. It has been tested for commercial and technical viability by a global consortium, including Primark, H&M Group, Panta Rei, and others, with support from the UK Government’s SMEP Programme and UNCTAD.
By significantly reducing industrial freshwater withdrawal and enhancing wastewater treatment, the project will leave more clean water accessible to surrounding communities, helping to mitigate both water stress and local pollution.
Primark representative Lewys Isaac, present at the event, stated: “Research shows that over 90% of water bodies surrounding industrial factories in Bangladesh are severely polluted basins. This initiative will serve as an inspiration to move away from such pollution gradually.”
Ziaur Rahman, Regional Country Manager of H&M, said: “To build a sustainable environment, we must all work together in unison.”
Fakir Akhtaruzzaman, Managing Director of Fakir Group, shared, “A responsible approach in the garment industry will help protect the future of our planet and generations to come. With everyone’s support, this project will set a benchmark in Bangladesh.”
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Director of Fakir Knitwear Limited, Fakir Mashfiquzzaman Fabi, and, as the chief guest, Robiul Alam, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources. Special Guests included Lutful Ahmed, Additional Director General of the Department of Environment, and Dr. Mohammad Lutfur Rahman, Director of the Water Resources Planning Organization (WARPO).
In addition, senior officials from BGMEA, BKMEA, the French Development Bank, KfW Development Bank, and various international development organizations were present, indicating strong cross-sector support for advancing sustainability in the RMG industry.
This initiative also serves as the first major demonstration under the National Alliance for Water Reuse and Recycling, established in May 2025 by the Government of Bangladesh, the World Bank, and the Water Resources Planning Organization (WARPO). The alliance aims to scale sustainable water practices across the RMG industry nationwide.
The Water Reuse Demonstration Site stands as a scalable model that aligns with Bangladesh’s Water Act (2013), National Water Policy (1999), and the Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100. It is expected to inspire widespread adoption of water reuse technologies and reinforce Bangladesh’s position as a leader in responsible manufacturing.
The adoption of advanced water treatment technology will generate new employment and upskilling opportunities for factory workers, engineers, and maintenance staff, ushering in a new era of green jobs within Bangladesh’s industrial sector.
