Building sustainable supply chains in Cambodia's garment industry

As a significant job creator and export revenue driver, the garment industry in Cambodia is central to its economy. But despite its benefits, the environmental implications of the sector, characterised by fast fashion landfill contributions and the large volume of wasted textiles, have become an urgent issue. Consequently, there is an undeniable need for sustainable development in textiles. This imperative, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG Goal 9), demands the evolution of traditional garment factories in Cambodia into eco-friendly producers embracing sustainability in the textile industry. 

This blog delves into how the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC), along with the broader garment industry, can foster sustainable supply chain practices and promote green logistics in supply chain management. We'll explore practical ways to develop a sustainable supply chain, reducing the types of waste in the textile industry and pushing towards a zero waste fashion future.

The green imperative

Fueled by shifting consumer preferences and heightened environmental consciousness, the wave of sustainability in the textile industry is causing a seismic shift in the global market. Consumers are rapidly turning away from brands contributing to fast fashion landfill and are instead seeking out those committed to zero waste fashion and eco-textiles. This consumer-driven revolution has far-reaching implications, necessitating urgent transformation within the garment industry, particularly given the extensive scale and influence of the garment factories in Cambodia.

This green shift aligns with the broader global objective of fulfilling the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Thus, sustainable development in textiles is no longer merely an ethical choice for businesses but a critical competitive strategy. By transitioning to green supply chain management and integrating sustainable supply chain practices, companies can carve out a compelling market edge that aligns with the preferences of today's discerning consumers, ultimately future-proofing their operations within the dynamic textile and garment industry in Cambodia.

Environmental regulations and initiatives in Cambodia

In a significant move towards environmental stewardship, the Garment Manufacturers Association in Cambodia (GMAC) has been instrumental in initiating a paradigm shift in the Cambodian garment industry. The GMAC, along with regulatory authorities, is striving to instil a culture of sustainability in textile production, transforming conventional garment factories into bastions of eco-friendly practices. This transformation heralds the beginning of the era of eco-textiles in Cambodia, part of a broader initiative to lessen the industry's environmental impact. Initiatives such as these are essential, given the garment industry's historical link to deforestation, with factories known to use illegally harvested forest wood for power generation, as uncovered by Mongabay.

In a compelling demonstration of sustainable development in textiles, the GMAC, in collaboration with GGGI, MoE, and MISTI, launched the Switch Garment Project, funded by the European Union's SWITCH-Asia Programme. This project aims to enhance the competitiveness of the Cambodian garment factories while reducing the sector's environmental footprint, in line with the global emphasis on sustainable supply chain management. To achieve this, the project implemented the Model Green Factory Programme, an example of green supply chain practices, which encompassed energy audits, the fostering of energy management practices, and facilitating investments in clean energy technologies. Another significant initiative was the promotion of sustainable logistics, for instance, investing in solar energy at the participating factory, PPSEC. These collective efforts are exemplary of the industry's move towards a zero waste fashion ethos, thereby driving sustainable development in the Cambodian garment industry.

Championing sustainable initiatives in Cambodia’s garment industry

Recognising the significant role played by the garment industry in Cambodia, several initiatives are being executed to foster a sustainable supply chain that aligns with the SDGs. Special emphasis is being placed on textile waste recycling, effectively mitigating the proliferation of wasted textiles often associated with fast fashion landfill. This strategy falls under the broader scope of SDG 9, fostering a green approach towards a sustainable future. By employing green logistics in supply chain management, the industry aims to reduce the environmental toll associated with traditional practices, such as overseas shipping.

The focus on eco-friendly measures extends beyond mere waste management. Sustainable development in textiles is also being addressed through water conservation strategies and efficient usage of renewable energy sources, thereby minimising the carbon footprint of the garment factories. Furthermore, the GMAC promotes the ethical sourcing of materials. This core principle of sustainable supply chain practices encourages the procurement of eco-textiles produced in a way that respects both the environment and human rights. By implementing such measures, the GMAC in Cambodia exemplifies the sustainable logistics and supply chain management approach, setting the precedent for companies to follow.