Bridging SDG gaps in the Bangladesh apparel industry: a comprehensive review

The purpose of the review is to explore the status of the apparel industry in Bangladesh, the gaps between this industry and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and recommendations to minimize these gaps. Despite significant progress, several key challenges pointed out the gaps with related SDGs such as low wages (SDG 1), inadequate health and safety issues (SDG 3), gender discrimination (SDG 5), poor water and waste management practices (SDG 6 & SDG 12), limited technological innovation (SDG 9), unequal distribution of profit (SDG 10), environmental impact (SDG 13,14, and 15), and partnership goals (SDG 17). The review data was collected from secondary sources by applying a systematic PRISMA review model and 67 articles have been selected from an initial poll of 387. Although the challenges must be addressed, the apparel sector’s contribution is significant and generates 85% of the country’s total export revenue. This research also highlighted the actionable recommendations to minimize the gaps between SDGs and the apparel industry in Bangladesh. The study also emphasizes collaboration among the governance, industry stakeholders, and international partners to establish a sustainable apparel sector. By addressing all these gaps, Bangladesh's apparel industry can enhance its footprint and competitiveness globally to ensure social and environmental sustainability.