STAR Network Joins UN Fashion Climate Charter to Boost Sustainability in Asia’s Garment Industry
NN Online:
The Sustainable Textiles of the Asian Region (STAR) Network has strengthened its sustainability commitment by becoming a supporting organization of the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, an initiative convened by UN Climate Change.
The move highlights the collective ambition of STAR’s nine national member associations—representing nearly 35,000 garment, footwear, and travel goods manufacturers across Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Vietnam—to drive climate resilience and sustainable growth in Asia’s textile and apparel sector.
The Charter unites global fashion brands, retailers, suppliers, and industry partners in efforts to meet the Paris Agreement target of limiting global temperature rise to 1.5°C. It sets out a roadmap for decarbonization, including achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, advancing renewable energy, and scaling circular business models.
As a supporting organization, STAR Network will:
- Advocate for supplier perspectives in global sustainability dialogues.
- Collaborate with international brands and industry groups to share best practices and reduce environmental impact.
- Build capacity through training, technical support, and knowledge exchange for manufacturers navigating the green transition.
- Drive joint initiatives on renewable energy, sustainable production, and supply chain transparency.
Fazlee Shamim Ehsan, Chairman of the STAR Network and Executive President of the Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BKMEA), said the partnership ensures Asian suppliers have a stronger voice in shaping global climate action:
“By joining the Charter, we are engaging more closely with global stakeholders to ensure the voices of Asian suppliers are heard in the climate movement. We are committed to accelerating sustainable practices across the supply chain while ensuring the transition remains inclusive and fair for millions of workers and communities.”
Sovichea Saron, Head of the STAR Secretariat, added:
“This milestone shows our readiness to align with global climate goals and strengthens our ability to deliver meaningful action in the region. Through this partnership, we can amplify supplier perspectives, build collaboration with brands, and create practical solutions that support both climate resilience and long-term competitiveness.”
Looking ahead, STAR Network plans to work with the Charter on regional renewable energy programs, supplier training, and research to inform evidence-based policymaking. The alliance’s participation reflects its commitment not only to the Paris Agreement and the Charter’s goals but also to ensuring that sustainability transitions create shared value across the global supply chain.