Bangladesh leads Asia’s circular economy
The Society for Asian Circular Innovation Network (SACIN), a research-based think tank dedicated to promoting circular economy practices across Asia, officially launched its activities in Dhaka on Saturday.
Speaking at the inauguration held at the BCI Conference Room, SACIN Founder President Priti Chakraborty said the organisation aims to foster sustainable development through research, innovation, policy advocacy, and regional cooperation.
“Today marks the beginning of a new journey and a new responsibility towards building a sustainable future,” she said.
Under the slogan “Think Circular. Innovate Regionally. Impact Globally,” SACIN seeks to position Asia as a global leader in circular economy and sustainability.
Initially, the organisation will focus on the textile and apparel sector — Bangladesh’s largest export industry — with plans to expand into agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, plastics, construction, power and energy, financial services, water and sanitation, and shipbuilding.
Among the attendees were Nuria Lopez, Ashraful Haq Chowdhury, Monir Uddin, ZM Golam Nabi, and Mollah Amzad Hossain.
SACIN officials speaking at the event included Executive Committee Member Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu, Vice-President Shiabur Rahman Shihab, Secretary General Shafayat Hosen, Advisor AKM Jahidul Alam, Joint Secretary Sheikh Md Rezvi Newaz, Treasurer Md Nazmuchh Chhakib, and Executive Committee Member Mahfujur Rahman.
In her remarks, Nuria Lopez emphasised that Bangladesh should move beyond treating sustainability and circular economy practices merely as compliance requirements imposed by international buyers.
She noted that adopting circular economy principles could attract green investment, strengthen exports, enhance environmental resilience, and establish Bangladesh as a hub in sustainable global supply chains.
Priti Chakraborty also highlighted the increasing environmental and climate challenges facing Asia, warning that the traditional “take-make-dispose” economic model is no longer viable.
Drawing on her experience in the healthcare sector, she stressed the close link between environmental sustainability and public health.
SACIN outlined its plans to focus on four main areas: research and development, policy advocacy, networking and collaboration, and awareness-building.
The organisation also unveiled upcoming initiatives, including an Asian Sustainability Data & AI Portal, Circular Tech & Innovation Marketplace, SACIN Academy & Certification, Circular Solutions Investment Platform, and the Asian Circular Economy & Climate Summit.
The event was attended by researchers, academics, development professionals, industry representatives, and journalists.
According to SACIN, its initiatives align with several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly responsible consumption and production, climate action, and partnerships for sustainable development.
