In a move aimed at promoting a sustainable built environment across India's apparel manufacturing sector, the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Green Business Certification Institute Pvt Ltd (GBCI). The partnership seeks to increase the number of LEED-certified garment factories in the country through efficient energy, water, and waste management and advanced monitoring technologies.

The MoU was formalised last week by AEPC Secretary General Mithileshwar Thakur and Gopalakrishnan P, Managing Director of GBCI for Asia Pacific and the Middle East.

Highlighting the significance of the initiative, AEPC Chairman Sudhir Sekhri said, “The Indian garment industry is now more committed than ever to sustainable practices. LEED certification signals reduced resource consumption, a lower carbon footprint, and healthier working conditions, while also lowering operational costs and boosting investor confidence.”

India currently has only 13 LEED-certified garment factories, compared to around 250 in Bangladesh. “There is strong global emphasis from major brands on sustainability. To stay competitive, Indian factories must embrace green building principles,” said Thakur.

GBCI, a global leader in certifying green business practices, will offer localised support to facilitate on-site certification, technical guidance, and sustainability verification. Gopalakrishnan noted that the collaboration would help Indian manufacturers meet the evolving environmental and social expectations of the global market.

The MoU includes cooperation in knowledge sharing, technical publications, and awareness campaigns. AEPC reaffirmed its mission to embed sustainability, traceability, human welfare, social compliance, and ESG principles in India’s garment sector through strategic partnerships.

This collaboration is a strategic step to enhance India’s apparel industry’s global standing through sustainable transformation.