Experts push for data-driven, inclusive growth for resilient Bangladesh

Sustainability campaigners and industry leaders emphasised the critical role of sustainability in industry in achieving long-term inclusive growth and resilience in Bangladesh.

At the second edition of the Sustainability Summit 2025, held at a city hotel today (12 July), they highlighted the role of data in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) for manufacturing, public-private partnerships for sustainable nation building, and the examination of Bangladesh's green transition.

Organised by Bangladesh Brand Forum and Sustainable Brand Initiative, the day-long summit brought together industry experts, academics, and social entrepreneurs, where they discussed innovation and knowledge on how to ensure sustainable business practices.

The sessions explored the growing influence of sustainability on business models, consumer behaviour, and the strategic vision of forward-thinking organisations.

In his opening remarks, Sajid Mahbub, chief executive officer and executive editor of Bangladesh Brand Forum, said, "Sustainability is no longer a choice—it is the foundation of future-ready businesses. With this summit, we aim to create a powerful dialogue that brings together leaders, changemakers, and visionaries to drive action, inspire innovation, and accelerate our collective journey toward achieving the SDGs by 2030."

Throughout the summit, campaigners and speakers emphasised the importance of integrating sustainability into industry operations to ensure long-term resilience. Discussions focused on the role of data in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) frameworks, the impact of public-private partnerships, and the necessity of inclusive growth in Bangladesh's green transition.

Delivering the keynote presentation, Shehzad Munim, Independent Director of Linde Bangladesh Ltd, stressed the urgency of sustainable reforms.

"SDG demands long-term reforms for survival. Bangladesh has progressed economically, but our environmental health is in crisis. Water conservation alone can lower methane and unlock carbon trading potential," he said.

In a panel discussion, Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, Chairman and CEO of PRAN-RFL Group, highlighted the private sector's growing contribution to renewable energy.

"We made a major investment in the development of renewable energy and the government should focus on framing merchant power plant policy in the renewable energy sector to attract new investment in this sector," he urged.

Mohammad Nurunnabi, UNESCO chair, Education for Sustainable Development, Green Skills and Climate Actions, Roger Levermore, senior strategy advisor and president of School of Management, Asian Institute of Technology, Sabbir Hasan Nasir, managing director, ACI Logistics Limited, Syed Mahbubur Rahman, managing director and CEO, Mutual Trust Bank PLC and other sector leaders also spoke.