The global textile industry stands at a critical juncture as it grapples with immense environmental challenges. The sector has long been associated with high water and energy consumption, as well as significant waste generation. As consumers and governments alike push for greener practices, the industry is evolving toward sustainable models that prioritise ecological balance without compromising quality.In India, the textile industry is undergoing a transformative shift and RSWM Limited is amongthe pioneering organisations that are weaving environmental responsibility into their operations.
In this interview with TheCSRUniverse, Mr. B.M. Sharma, Joint Managing Director, RSWM Ltd delves into RSWM’s strategies and achievements – from reducing water and energy consumption to designing eco-friendly textiles. Mr. Sharma explains how RSWM employs innovative technologies such as Zero Liquid Discharge systems and harnesses renewable energy, thus incorporating recycled materials into their products.
Read the full interview below:
Q. India’s textile industry is known for being resource-intensive, with high water and energy usage. How has RSWM specifically reduced water and energy consumption in the production of your materials? Can you share any measurable outcomes?
A. Sustainability is not a new concept in India but rather a fundamental aspect of our culture that has been practised for thousands of years. With growing environmental concerns in India’s textile industry, we at RSWM recognize the urgent need for sustainable practices that reduce our ecological footprint while maintaining production excellence.
At RSWM, we have made significant progress in reducing both water and energy consumption within our textile production processes, reflecting our deep commitment to sustainability. By implementing Zero Liquid Discharge technology across all our manufacturing units, we ensure that no wastewater leaves our facilities. This technology enables us to recycle water efficiently, resulting in an annual saving of over 1.3 million kilolitres. In addition to water conservation, we have prioritized reducing our dependence on non-renewable energy sources. We have made substantial investments in renewable energy, utilizing approximately 76.5 million kilowatt-hours of solar and wind power each year. By integrating green energy into our operations, we are reducing our carbon footprint and supporting national efforts towards sustainable energy. Moreover, we have adopted biofuels made from agricultural waste, replacing traditional fossil fuels and consuming 8,800 metric tons of biofuel annually. The combination of water recycling, renewable energy adoption, and recycling practices has resulted in a reduction of 800,000 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually. These actions showcase RSWM’s ongoing dedication to creating a more sustainable textile industry by actively addressing both resource and energy challenges.
Q. Water pollution from textile dyeing is a critical environmental issue in India. How does your company manage wastewater, and what treatment technologies do you employ to ensure it meets environmental standards before discharge?
A. Water pollution resulting from textile dyeing is indeed a significant challenge, and at RSWM Limited, we have taken proactive measures to address this pressing environmental issue. As a leading player in the Indian textile industry with over six decades of expertise, we are committed to sustainable business practices that align with the global call for environmental responsibility. Our focus on water conservation and pollution control is evident in our Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) system, which ensures that no untreated water is discharged from our facilities. This system is in place across all our dyeing units, guaranteeing the highest standards of environmental protection. The ZLD technology, along with advanced multi-stage effluent treatment plants and sophisticated water filtration units, enables us to treat, recycle, and reuse water, significantly reducing our reliance on fresh water and minimizing our overall water footprint.
Moreover, to ensure that the treated water meets strict environmental standards, RSWM uses only GOTS and Oeko-Tex certified dyes, further reducing the toxicity of water used in our processes. These initiatives have allowed us to conserve approximately 13,03,967 KL (about 1.3 million kiloliters) of water annually, contributing to both environmental sustainability and operational efficiency. This not only meets but exceeds environmental standards, setting a new benchmark for sustainable water management in India’s textile industry.
Q. Textile waste in India contributes to around 8.5% of the total textile waste generated globally. What strategies do you use to minimise waste generation during production? Also, what volume of waste do you recycle annually?
A. At RSWM Limited, we recognize that textile waste is a major global environmental challenge, and we have adopted comprehensive strategies to address this issue. One of our primary approaches is enhancing production efficiency through the use of advanced Garknit machines. These machines are used to reuse post-consumer waste by shredding it into raw materials and creating new yarns and fabrics out of it. By focusing on technology-driven efficiency, we are able to minimise waste generation during production while maintaining high standards of quality.
In addition to production optimization, we are committed to integrating recycled materials into our manufacturing processes. We use both recycled cotton and recycled polyester, which not only reduces our dependence on raw materials but also promotes a circular economy by giving new life to post-consumer and post-industrial waste. This focus on sustainability extends to all aspects of our operations, ensuring that every resource is used efficiently and responsibly. By prioritizing waste minimization and recycling, RSWM continues to contribute to global sustainability efforts while setting new standards for resource efficiency in the textile industry.
Q. The demand for sustainable textiles is rising, both domestically and internationally. How does your company approach sustainable product design? Can you highlight any innovations that you have introduced?
A. As the demand for eco-friendly textiles grows, RSWM Limited is at the forefront of developing sustainable products by embedding environmental responsibility into every stage of design and production. Our approach focuses on using innovative materials and processes that align with global sustainability goals. One of the standout initiatives in our sustainability journey is the transformation of PET bottles into recycled polyester fibers. Every year, we divert 183 Crores of PET bottles from landfills and convert them into premium-quality fibers, significantly reducing plastic waste while contributing to the production of durable, sustainable textiles. In addition to recycled polyester, we incorporate natural fibers such as organic cotton and bamboo into our products. These materials are processed using eco-friendly dyeing techniques that eliminate harmful chemicals and minimize water usage. By integrating recycled materials with natural fibers, we ensure our textiles meet global sustainability standards and align with consumer preferences for greener products.
These innovations form a core part of our sustainable product design strategy. RSWM remains committed to leading the industry with forward-thinking solutions that address both environmental concerns and market expectations, driving the textile industry toward a more sustainable future.
Q. What role do government policies play in promoting sustainability in the textile sector, and how does RSWM align with these regulations?
A. Government policies play a vital role in promoting sustainability within the textile sector by encouraging companies to adopt greener practices. In India, various regulations focus on reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and incentivizing the use of renewable energy. These policies not only create a framework for environmental responsibility but also offer financial and operational benefits to businesses that invest in sustainable technologies.
At RSWM Limited, we have aligned our operations with these sustainability goals, proactively adopting green technologies and renewable energy sources. One of our major initiatives is the shift from coal-based boilers to biofuel alternatives. By next year, we will be the first one to be 100% reliant on biofuel for our boiler operations, which will significantly lower our carbon emissions. This move is directly in line with government efforts to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Additionally, RSWM has made substantial investments in renewable energy, utilising solar and wind power across its manufacturing facilities. Currently, we harness 76.5 million kilowatt-hours of green energy annually, significantly reducing our reliance on conventional energy sources and contributing to national sustainability objectives. These efforts not only meet regulatory demands but also position us as a leader in energy-efficient textile production.
By integrating biofuels, renewable energy, and energy-efficient processes into our operations, RSWM aligns with the evolving regulatory framework, while setting new benchmarks for sustainability in the Indian textile industry. As government policies continue to incentivize green initiatives, we remain committed to driving further environmental innovation across all aspects of our business.
Q. The Indian government is increasingly demanding adherence to ESG policies in the textile industry. How is RSWM acting on this front?
A. RSWM is fully committed to aligning with the Indian government’s increasing focus on ESG policies within the textile industry. We ensure 100% participation of our Key Managerial Personnel in comprehensive training programs focused on ESG strategy, BRSR compliance, and the implementation of non-financial controls. Additionally, over 90% of our employees and more than 80% of our workers have been trained in ESG-related areas, including safety, risk assessment, and leadership development. Our sustainability efforts extend to the adoption of renewable energy, with substantial investments in wind and solar power, as well as the conversion of our boilers to bio-fuel. We have implemented advanced water recycling systems to further strengthen our environmental stewardship. Moreover, we have adopted effective measures for textile waste management and PET bottle recycling, ensuring that 50% of our polyester production comes from recycled sources. We maintain transparency by publishing detailed ESG metrics in our annual report and also release a yearly dedicated sustainability report, reflecting our commitment to aligning with global sustainability standards while meeting all regulatory requirements.
Q. What challenges do you face in maintaining sustainability in large-scale textile production, and how do you overcome them?
A. One of the key challenges we face in maintaining sustainability in large-scale textile production is the cost factor. Sustainable production methods often come with higher operational costs, whether it’s sourcing eco-friendly materials, using renewable energy, or implementing advanced waste-reduction technologies. However, despite these increased costs, clients are typically focused on purchasing lower-priced products and are not always willing to pay a premium for sustainability. This puts pressure on manufacturers to balance cost efficiency with the demands for quality, while also adhering to sustainable practices.
Nevertheless, we are seeing a positive shift in consumer awareness. End consumers, particularly in international markets, are becoming more conscious of the environmental and ethical impact of their purchases. As this awareness grows, it encourages brands and retailers to prioritize sustainability in their supply chains. By staying committed to sustainability, we position ourselves to meet the future demands of both consumers and industry regulations.To overcome this challenge, we focus on improving operational efficiency. By continuously optimizing production processes and exploring innovative ways to reduce costs, we are able to maintain competitive pricing without compromising on our commitment to sustainable practices. This balance allows us to stay ahead in an industry where both quality and sustainability are increasingly important.
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