Surat Textile Industry Pushes Green Transition with Sustainability Workshop

Surat | Gujarat — Surat’s textile industry took a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future with an awareness workshop on “Sustainable Practices and Green Technologies for Textile Sector,” bringing together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers and technology experts to explore innovative solutions for reducing environmental impact and improving competitiveness.

Organised by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) and Energiva Ventures in collaboration with the South Gujarat Textile Processors Association (SGTPA) and The Man-Made Textiles Research Association (MANTRA), the event was held at the Marriott Hotel in Surat and witnessed enthusiastic participation from textile entrepreneurs, process house representatives, academicians and government officials.

Addressing the gathering, Girish Sethi, Senior Director at TERI, stressed the growing importance of sustainability in the textile sector.

“Adopting innovative and green technologies is no longer an option but a necessity. Sustainable development is essential for protecting the environment while ensuring long-term industrial growth,” he said.

Bansi Shukla, Senior Portfolio Manager at Energiva Ventures, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between government agencies, industry stakeholders and research institutions to accelerate energy conservation and carbon reduction efforts.

SGTPA President Jitendra Vakharia, emphasized that Surat’s globally recognized textile industry, and  must increasingly adopt eco-friendly technologies to remain competitive in international markets. MANTRA President Rajnikant S. Bachkaniwala added that the organization continues to support textile units through research, technical guidance and energy-saving initiatives.

During the technical sessions, experts discussed key topics including circular textile value chains, energy-efficient dyeing technologies, solar thermal applications, industrial electrification and effective management of textile waste. Dr. Manoj Kumar Godhaniya from the District Industries Centre also informed participants about government incentives and subsidy schemes available for adopting green technologies.

Prof. Salim A. Channiwala, who chaired the technical session, said sustainable manufacturing practices would play a crucial role in shaping the future of the textile industry.

The workshop concluded with an interactive discussion and networking session, where participants exchanged ideas on water conservation, pollution control, renewable energy adoption and circular economy models. Organisers described the event as an important platform for accelerating Surat’s transition towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient and environmentally responsible textile ecosystem.