A new regional research and innovation platform focused on advancing circular economy solutions across Asia officially launched in Dhaka on Saturday, signaling growing momentum behind sustainability, resource efficiency, and climate-focused industrial transformation across the region.
The Society for Asian Circular Innovation Network (SACIN), a research think tank dedicated to promoting circular economy practices, began its journey through a launch programme held at the BCI Conference Room in Dhaka, bringing together policymakers, researchers, industry representatives, sustainability professionals, and development stakeholders.
The organisation said it aims to strengthen sustainable development across Asia through research, innovation, policy engagement, regional collaboration, and knowledge-sharing initiatives designed to support the transition toward more resource-efficient and environmentally responsible economies.
Speaking at the event, Priti Chakraborty, Founder President of SACIN, said the launch marks the beginning of a broader movement to rethink industrial development and sustainability practices across the region.
“Today we are not just introducing an organisation; we are beginning a new journey, a new way of thinking, and a new responsibility,” she said during her opening remarks.
SACIN introduced its slogan — “Think Circular. Innovate Regionally. Impact Globally.” — which reflects the organisation’s vision of positioning Asia as a global leader in circular economy innovation and sustainable development practices.
The organisation initially plans to focus on textiles and apparel, Bangladesh’s largest export-oriented industry, before gradually expanding its work into other major sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, construction and real estate, healthcare, plastics, power and energy, financial services, water and sanitation, and shipbuilding.
Industry experts attending the programme noted that circular economy principles are becoming increasingly important across global industries as governments, businesses, and investors face mounting pressure to address climate change, waste management, resource depletion, and environmental sustainability challenges.
The launch event highlighted growing recognition within Bangladesh and the wider Asian region that traditional linear economic models based on “take, make, and dispose” systems are becoming increasingly unsustainable amid rising environmental concerns and global climate risks.
Speakers at the event emphasized that circular economy approaches — which prioritize reuse, recycling, resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production systems — are expected to play a major role in future industrial competitiveness and economic resilience.
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Among the guests of honour at the programme were Nuria Lopez, Chairperson of EuroCham Bangladesh; Ashraful Haq Chowdhury, President of the Saudi Arabia-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SABCCI); Monir Uddin; ZM Golam Nabi; and Mollah Amzad Hossain.
Nuria Lopez said Bangladesh can no longer view sustainability and circular economy practices solely as compliance obligations imposed by international markets, warning that climate change and outdated industrial models are already affecting the country’s long-term competitiveness.
She noted that embracing circular economy practices presents Bangladesh with an opportunity to strengthen its position as a sustainable global supply chain hub, attract green investment, and improve long-term economic and environmental resilience.
Industry observers say Bangladesh’s export-oriented sectors, particularly textiles and apparel, are increasingly facing pressure from international buyers and regulators to improve sustainability performance, reduce environmental impact, strengthen traceability, and adopt circular production models.
During the event, Priti Chakraborty highlighted the deep connection between environmental sustainability and public health, drawing from her experience in the healthcare sector.
“If water is polluted, people become sick. If air is polluted, children and the elderly suffer. Sustainable development is no longer optional; it is essential,” she said.
SACIN announced that its activities will focus on four core areas: research and development, policy advocacy and support, networking and collaboration, and knowledge dissemination and awareness-building.
The organisation also unveiled several future initiatives aimed at accelerating circular innovation and sustainability-focused collaboration across Asia.
These include the Asian Sustainability Data & AI Portal, the Circular Tech & Innovation Marketplace, SACIN Academy & Certification, the Circular Solutions Investment Platform, and the Asian Circular Economy & Climate Summit.
According to organisers, these initiatives are intended to strengthen access to sustainability knowledge, improve regional collaboration, support green technology adoption, and encourage investment in circular business models and climate-focused innovation.
The launch programme was attended by researchers, academics, development professionals, industry leaders, sustainability experts, and members of the media, reflecting growing interest in circular economy practices within Bangladesh’s industrial and policy landscape.
SACIN said its mission aligns closely with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production, SDG 13 on Climate Action, and SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals.
The organisation called on governments, businesses, universities, researchers, youth, development partners, and communities across Asia to collaborate in building a more sustainable, inclusive, and circular future.
Industry stakeholders attending the event noted that as climate pressures, environmental regulations, and sustainability expectations continue to intensify globally, regional collaboration and innovation-driven approaches will become increasingly important in shaping Asia’s long-term industrial and economic transformation.
