In today’s world, sustainability is not just a trend—it’s a must. brands are seeking manufacturing partners who are serious about sustainability. Digital tools can help meet these needs by providing advanced solutions for achieving environmental and social goals. Here’s how digitalization can lead the way in making apparel manufacturing more sustainable and socially responsible.
Going Digital for Sustainability
Digital tools allow companies to measure, monitor and manage their sustainability performance in real time. A Digital Dashboard can display data on resource consumption, wastewater, solid waste, risk ratings, audit scores, environment intensity and renewable energy generation all in one place. Integrating this data into systems like ERP or SAP makes it easier for businesses to track and improve their sustainability efforts.
Real-Time Data for Better Decisions
One big advantage of a Digital Dashboard is real-time updates. Updated daily, this tool gives stakeholders access to the latest data, helping them make quick and informed decisions. Whether it’s tracking energy use or managing waste, a Digital Dashboard provides the detailed information needed to drive sustainability initiatives forward.
Accurate Data Collection
Accurate data is crucial for sustainability reporting. Using a mix of IoT technology and manual data entry, companies can capture utility data directly from meters. This approach minimizes errors and ensures reliable data, helping companies meet regulatory standards and achieve their sustainability goals.
Comprehensive Utility Mapping
A Digital Dashboard offers a complete view of key utilities. From electricity and water use to fuel consumption and renewable energy generation, it covers everything. This comprehensive view helps companies understand their environmental impact and find areas for improvement.
Calculating Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Reducing carbon footprints is a key part of sustainability. A strong method for calculating Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions from utility data, based on international standards, provides accurate insights. These insights help companies create effective strategies to lower their environmental impact.
Enhancing Social Compliance
Beyond environmental sustainability, social compliance is crucial in the apparel industry. Digital tools can help ensure fair labor practices and safe working conditions. Real-time monitoring and reporting on social compliance metrics, such as grievance, attrition, committee meetings and safety incidents, enable companies to adhere to international labor standards and improve worker well-being.
The Future of Sustainability: Digitalization
Looking ahead, further digitalizing sustainability data involves more automation, real-time monitoring, and advanced analytics. The benefits are clear:
- More Accurate Data: Automation cuts down on human errors, making data more reliable.
- Better Real-Time Monitoring: Instant data access helps quickly spot and fix issues.
- Smarter Decisions: Detailed analytics support better strategic choices.
- Easier Compliance: Simplifies following sustainability and social compliance regulations.
- Greater Transparency: Builds trust with customers, partners, and investors.
Supporting the RMG Sector
In the Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector, digital tools are especially valuable. They help factories in this sector improve their environmental impact, ensure social compliance, and boost overall efficiency. By using digital dashboards and real-time data, RMG factories can reduce waste, lower energy consumption, and ensure safe and fair working conditions for their employees.
Leading the Way
Digitalization isn’t just a tool; it’s a partner in driving sustainability in the apparel industry. Advanced digital solutions offer the insights and tools needed to reach and surpass sustainability and social compliance targets. By embracing digital tools, companies can commit to environmental responsibility, social compliance, and continuous improvement.
Let’s set new standards for sustainable and ethical manufacturing together. With digital tools, we can create a more sustainable and socially responsible future for the apparel industry.
About the Author Abdul Azeez holds dual roles as Chief ESG Product Strategist at REDEFINE Technologies and Sustainability Project Lead at Redefine Management Services. Redefine has developed SATTVA, an acclaimed sustainability tool designed to elevate performance in sustainable practices. Trusted by prominent manufacturers such as Epyllion and Arabi Fashion in Bangladesh, SATTVA is recognized for its capability to drive meaningful improvements across environmental, social, and governance aspects within the apparel manufacturing sector. Diverzent is a partner of Redefine Technologies in Bangladesh.
