Sustainable Fashion Initiative Empowers Bangladesh.
A remarkable fusion of tradition and innovation is sweeping through Bangladesh's fashion scene, as a group of Marma women and Manipuri men unveil their stunning creation: sarees woven entirely from banana fibre. This eco-conscious approach represents a significant shift in Bangladesh's fashion landscape, breathing fresh life into the ethnic Bangladeshi attire.
Shaing Shaing U, a teacher at Bandarban University and a driving force behind this initiative, has been a fabric enthusiast for years. Collaborating with entrepreneur Guno Moni, they embarked on this journey in response to a call from then-Bandarban deputy commissioner Yasmin Parvin Tibriji. It led to the creation a sustainable saree weaved from banana fibre, offering a unique blend of tradition and sustainability.
These eco-friendly sarees represent a giant leap towards supporting local artisans, reducing environmental impact, and providing alternative income sources for banana plantations. The initiative showcases the immense potential of nature-based solutions and the significance of embracing natural fibres for a sustainable fashion industry. In addition to empowering local farmers and artisans, it symbolises Bangladesh's commitment to environmental sustainability and innovative fashion.
I was asked whether I could make a file folder with banana fiber. I took seven days before coming up with any decision. I discussed it with my husband and after seeing the fiber, we found that it would be possible and we made some file folders