As Bangladesh continues its journey toward sustainable development, adopting green practices and ensuring transparency, Unilever's efforts demonstrate how business can lead the way in creating a sustainable future while contributing to global sustainable development goals, said British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke.

The envoy made the comment while launching the Sustainability Blue Book 2024, the second voluntary report published by Unilever Bangladesh Limited (UBL) at the "Progressing Sustainably: Together for Bangladesh" programme in Dhaka on Wednesday.

"I commend Unilever Bangladesh, a major UK investor, for their commitment to producing high-quality, locally made products that benefit millions of Bangladeshi households. Their focus on sustainability and inclusive business growth serves as a powerful example for others," said the envoy.

The event brought together UBL's valued partners, key industry players, and sustainability advocates in Bangladesh to share and discuss their progress and vision for a sustainable future for Bangladesh.

Zaved Akhtar, chairman and managing director of UBL, said, "For over six decades, Unilever has been committed to Bangladesh's growth, integrating sustainability at the core of our business. By focusing on actionable goals alongside long-term commitments, we aim to protect the planet while creating economic value."

"However, this journey requires collective action. The next era of sustainability will largely depend on how we work together as a community."

"With 2025 set to be a pivotal year for everyone as there will be significant developments in policy dialogues, primarily related to plastic, nutrition, and the ocean, we have to collectively focus on innovation through collaboration. And, today's engagement with all our partners joining us to celebrate and progress sustainability together for Bangladesh, reflects the power of unity, giving us hope to build a sustainable, inclusive future for Bangladesh and beyond"

Shamima Akhter, director of corporate affairs, partnerships and communications at UBL, delivered the keynote speech.

The programme also featured three roundtable discussions with experts, focusing on the current problems and collaborative solutions to protect the environment.

The UBL team presented four compelling case studies, highlighting their key initiatives under the four focus sustainability pillars: climate, nature, plastic, and livelihood.