Source : just-style.com

Dr Yumkella flanked by Brandix directors Aslam Omar (second from left) and AJ Johnpillai (extreme right) at the Brandix
green plant

Dr Yumkella flanked by Brandix directors Aslam Omar (second from left) and AJ Johnpillai (extreme right) at the Brandix green plant

The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has recommended the Brandix Group's 'green apparel factory' as a model of sustainable production to manufacturers around the world.

The endorsement of the facility at Seeduwa was made by UNIDO director general Dr Kandeh Yumkella, during a visit on Friday (11th June).

He was in Sri Lanka to deliver the keynote address at the 9th Asia Pacific Roundtable for Sustainable Consumption and Production.

"Promoting clean and sustainable industrial development is at the heart of everything that UNIDO advocates and implements globally," Dr Yumkella said.

"I am therefore pleased to recommend this factory as an example of sustainable production to manufacturers across industries and geographical boundaries."

The 130,000 square-foot Brandix Eco Centre is the Group's lead manufacturing plant for Marks & Spencer, and has been rated Platinum under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System of the US Green Building Council (USGBC).

The flagship facility is one of 27 business units operated by Brandix in Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh, supplying brands such as Gap, Marks & Spencer, Victoria's Secret, Abercrombie & Fitch, Next, Lands' End, Old Navy and Tommy Hilfiger.

The Group is on course to reduce its carbon footprint by 17% by December 2010, with a 30% cut targeted over the next two years.

Speaking during Dr Yumkella's visit, Brandix director Ajit Johnpillai revealed the company is working closely with UNIDO on a chemical leasing initiative that will also contribute to sustainability.


Dr. Yumkella (second row centre) tours the Brandix Green Plant



Dr. Yumkella flanked by Brandix Directors Aslam Omar (second from left) and AJ Johnpillai (extreme right) at the Brandix Green Plant