New Research Paper: Child Rights and Informal Textile Waste Recycling in Bangladesh

As one of the largest producers of textile waste, Bangladesh’s post-industrial textile waste recycling sector provides livelihoods for many, particularly women and marginalised communities. However, the child rights risks in this highly informal industry remain insufficiently understood, especially in the context of the just transition, despite its direct links to the formal ready-made garment (RMG) industry.

The Centre was commissioned by UNICEF to explore the dynamics of textile waste recycling value chains and their impact on children’s rights within the framework of a just transition. The research covers key issues such as child labour and broader child rights risks in the informal recycling sector, particularly within the RMG industry.

This research has resulted in two publications:

• A comprehensive report with actionable recommendations for companies on how to address child rights risks and engage responsibly with Bangladesh’s informal waste recycling sector.

• A supplementary report that summarises the key issues and offers additional recommendations for governments, CSOs, and consumers.

What’s in the report:

• The key challenges faced by women, children and families in the informal textile waste markets in Bangladesh

• The sector’s critical role in the just transition agenda and the circular economy, given that textile production is the world’s second most polluting industry

• The connections between waste markets and formal recycling/textile industries

• Recommendations for companies to engage meaningfully

We hope the information in these publications leads to practical actions to safeguard children’s rights while supporting a sustainable and equitable future. If you would like to know more about our work in this sector and how we can support you, please contact us.

Download the reports