Bangladesh's garment industry has touched a new milestone after two more factories received the certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) for their green initiatives, raising the total to 200.

Lida Textile & Dyeing Limited, situated in Kaliakoir of Gazipur, and Liz Fashion Industry Limited, also located in the same industrial belt, received the platinum-rated LEED certification from USGBC, said Faruque Hassan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).

In a WhatsApp message, Hassan said: "The BGMEA proudly announces a significant achievement in its journey towards sustainable industrialisation, as the nation celebrates the certification of the 200th LEED green factory by the USGBC."

"This remarkable milestone underscores Bangladesh's steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship, economic growth, and global competitiveness."

Of the 200 factories, 73 are platinum-rated, 113 are gold-rated, 10 are silver-rated, and four are certified factories.

Bangladesh is home to some of the best factories in the world: 13 out of 15 top LEED green factories are located in the country.

In 2022, 30 garment factories received LEED certification. In 2023 so far, 18 factories have secured the recognition.

"I hope by the end of 2023, we will be able to reach a new milestone," Hassan said, adding that as many as 500 factories are awaiting USGBC certification.