Unilever Bangladesh (UBL), the country's leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturing and marketing company, organized an event titled 'Progressing Sustainability: Together for Bangladesh' in Dhaka on Wednesday. The purpose of sustainable future of Bangladesh was discussed in the event.
Unilever Bangladesh's second optional report 'Sustainability Blue Book 2024' was unveiled during the event. At this time, three round table discussions were organized on the challenges and solutions to protect the environment.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cook was present as the chief guest on the occasion. Chairman and Managing Director of Unilever Bangladesh Javed Akhtar was also present. Shamima Akhter, Director of Corporate Affairs, Partnerships and Communications of the organization, delivered the keynote address on the occasion.
The UBL team presented case studies highlighting some notable initiatives aligned with the business strategy, Growth Action Plan (GAP) 2024, four key sustainable development pillars – climate, nature, plastics and livelihoods. These case studies clearly demonstrate how sustainable solutions have been integrated into UBL's business operations through innovative and collaborative efforts.
Three important round table discussions were held at the end of the program. A discussion on 'Achieving Plastic Circularity in Bangladesh' was held with UK-based research institute Policy Exchange of Bangladesh. Management consulting firm Lightcastle Partners moderated the discussion on 'Climate Conversation: Collective Pathways for a Sustainable Bangladesh'. On the other hand, the International Labor Organization (ILO) conducts dialogue on 'Improving Livelihoods Across the Value Chain'.
British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cook said, 'I congratulate Unilever Bangladesh as a major investor in the UK. The company is keeping its promise to benefit millions of Bangladeshi families by producing high-quality products locally. Their focus on sustainable development and business growth has set a strong example for others. As Bangladesh moves towards sustainable development, it is very important for businesses to adopt environmentally friendly activities and ensure transparency.'
Unilever Bangladesh Chairman and Managing Director Javed Akhtar said, 'For more than six decades, Unilever Bangladesh has been committed to achieving growth for the country by incorporating sustainable development at the core of business. We seek to create economic value while protecting the planet through realistic goals and long-term commitments. However, this journey requires a collective effort. The next era of sustainable development will largely depend on the success of our work together as a community.'
Unilever Bangladesh will continue to work with its partners, stakeholders, industry leadership and government to create an enabling environment to build a sustainable Bangladesh.