Introduction

SM Sourcing, established in 2017, is a 100% export-oriented knit garments manufacturer located in Baimile, Konabari, Gazipur, Bangladesh. Spanning a total area of 37,807 sq ft and employing approximately 772 personnel, SM Sourcing produces around 1.5 million knit products per month, significantly contributing to the national economy and employment opportunities.

Recognizing the environmental responsibilities of industrial operations, SM Sourcing underwent a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), ensuring that its operations are environmentally friendly and sustainable, while maintaining high production standards.

Environmental Categorization and Green Building Certification

According to the Department of Environment (DoE) of Bangladesh, SM Sourcing falls under the Orange Category as per the Environmental Conservation Rules 2023. In addition, the factory has achieved LEED Platinum Certification, underscoring its commitment to sustainable infrastructure and green building standards.

Potential Environmental Impacts

The EIA identified potential environmental impacts arising from industrial operations and infrastructure, which were analyzed across key domains:

1. Atmospheric Emissions and Air Quality

• Power generation and boilers are the primary sources of emissions.
• Emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and particulates are negligible due to the use of Bangladeshi natural gas, which is low in sulfur.
• Nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions are minimized with low NOx combustion chambers, and dispersion modeling confirms emissions are within WB/IFC standards.

2. Liquid Discharge

• Wastewater is primarily domestic and related to garment operations.
• Proper disposal is achieved via septic tanks, ensuring minimal impact on local water systems.

3. Noise Pollution

• Generators and boilers produce noise, which is mitigated using insulated enclosures with 150mm thick walls.
• These controls ensure compliance with DoE and international noise standards, protecting nearby communities.

4. Solid Waste Management

• Waste generated from operations is systematically managed to reduce environmental risks.

5. Socio-Economic Impact

• Establishing SM Sourcing on previously non-residential, low-potential farm land maximizes economic efficiency.
• The factory generates employment, uplifts the local community, and contributes significantly to Bangladesh’s foreign currency earnings.

Operational Environmental Management

The EIA emphasizes proactive environmental management during factory operations:

• Air Quality Control: Flue gas emissions are discharged through chimneys after abatement measures.
• Noise Reduction: Canopy systems and insulated generator rooms minimize noise pollution.
• Liquid Waste Treatment: Wastewater and oil wastes are treated and managed with proper handling and storage procedures.
• Periodic Monitoring: Regular checks of noise, emissions, and drinking water quality ensure ongoing compliance.

Positive Outcomes of SM Sourcing Operations

While industrial operations inherently pose environmental challenges, SM Sourcing demonstrates significant positive impacts:

• Efficient use of previously underutilized land
• Creation of substantial employment opportunities
• Contribution to the growth of Bangladesh’s knit garments sector
• Economic uplift of the surrounding community

Conclusion

The EIA report concludes that SM Sourcing operates as an environmentally responsible industrial venture. Despite minor environmental challenges, the factory’s commitment to mitigation measures, ongoing monitoring, and sustainability initiatives ensures minimal negative impact.

With proper management and adherence to regulatory standards, SM Sourcing not only supports Bangladesh’s industrial growth but also serves as a benchmark for environmentally compatible industrial operations.

Prepared by:
Greentech Inspection Ltd.  

Project Director: Engr. Farhana Farzun Nahar

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