Pakistan: Reducing the environmental footprint of cotton and textiles
Channel: UNCTAD
Date: 15/02/2023

Production and trade are among the fundamental engines of economic growth in a globalized economy. But one critical aspect stands out: the link between production and pollution. 

Pakistan is the world's fifth-largest producer of cotton and a leading global producer of textiles. It produced $20.5 billion worth of manufactured goods in 2020, and this production, which is mainly destined for foreign markets, has a significant environmental impact in the country. 

The textile industry is considered one of the largest sources of pollution in the world. The main impacts are related to the use of harmful chemicals, high water and energy consumption, and the generation of large amounts of waste. The production of woven cotton causes pollution at various stages, from the production of seed cotton to the dyeing and drying of garments.  

The Sustainable Production and Environment Program is helping Pakistan identify and adopt solutions to reduce pollution, such as technologies, policies or platform solutions. The goal is to help the country promote sustainable production and trade. 

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3lobX67