Pran-RFL Group, one of the largest conglomerates in Bangladesh, has announced plans to improve its operational sustainability by allocating all investments in line with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This includes ensuring the full recycling of all plastics generated by the group by 2030, according to officials of Pran-RFL.

They disclosed these plans while unveiling the group's first-ever sustainability report through an event at Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel yesterday.

The officials said Pran-RFL also aims to use local agricultural and dairy ingredients for 90 percent of its processed food products and reduce water consumption at factories by 30 percent.

Furthermore, the group is targeting a 20 percent reduction in energy usage with 25 percent coming from renewable sources within the stipulated time, they said.

The report, styled "Nurturing Lives, Sustaining Tomorrow", showcased Pran-RFL's all-encompassing approach to sustainability, bearing witness to its unwavering commitment to value maximization, risk mitigation, and action coordination with business priorities and global sustainable development advocacy.

The group's sustainability strategy is based on the goal of providing the world with the innovations that are necessary for it to flourish.

Addressing the event, Mohammad Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser, praised Pran-RFL for this endeavour and emphasised the need for sustainability in the current business environment.

"Pran-RFL is leading by example in the corporate sector by releasing this report," he said while adding that it demonstrated their innovative strategy for tackling global issues and generating long-term benefits for society.

Alam informed that while the interim government aims to reduce carbon emissions, it is being done gradually as moves like completely banning the use of plastics would work to this end but also adversely affect employment.

However, he said they can ban the use of plastic, but it would affect employment. For this reason the government is advancing cautiously, he said.

Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman and chief executive officer of Pran-RFL Group, said the report showcased their steadfast commitment to sustainability.

"This report signifies a landmark moment in Pran-RFL's journey to sustainability as it marks our inaugural reporting effort," he added.

He also said the report's central theme encapsulates the strategies implemented to realise their vision of enhancing livelihoods and making a positive impact on the environment.

He further said Pran-RFL's sustainability narrative is woven into the fabric of its operations from sourcing materials to engaging communities.

"It is a story of transformation, innovation and hope," Chowdhury added.

He cited the report as evidence of attempts to reduce their environmental impact, promote social progress and propel economic expansion in an ethical and responsible manner.

Two panel discussions on "Sustainable Agriculture: Practices, Challenges and Way Forward" and "Role of Corporate Leadership in Sustainability" were also held at the event.

Experts and stakeholders that participated in the discussions highlighted the importance of sustainability in doing business, and the role of stakeholders in ensuring sustainability.

Tapan Kumar Biswas, additional secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, was present as the special guest.