Surat :MANTRA President Joins UNEP Global Textile Sustainability Project

SURAT : Surat has achieved another milestone on the global stage, with the city’s textile expertise receiving recognition from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Rajinikanth S. Bachkaniwala, President of MANTRA, an institution supported by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, has been invited to serve as an expert reviewer for a prestigious global research project on textile sustainability.

The invitation was extended by Laila Petri of Future Earth Lab, which is leading the UNEP-backed study titled “Assessment of Pathways to Sustainability and Circularity in Textiles.” The project aims to identify sustainable pathways for the global textile industry through 2050.

The selection of Bachkaniwala reflects his extensive contribution to the textile sector and highlights Surat’s growing influence in shaping global sustainability policies.

“This invitation is a proud moment not only for MANTRA but also for Surat and the Indian textile industry. It reflects the confidence the global community has in our expertise and practical experience,” Bachkaniwala said.

The research project will examine the environmental, social and economic impact of the textile industry over the next 25 years. It will also evaluate opportunities to build a circular economy across the entire textile value chain, including Manmade Cellulosic Fibre (MMCF) production.

Future Earth Lab has sought technical feedback, industry insights and production-related data from MANTRA to ensure that the study reflects practical industry realities and supports evidence-based policymaking.

“The participation of Indian experts will help ensure that the global assessment represents the challenges and opportunities faced by major textile-producing nations,” the project team noted.

Industry leaders believe the recognition reinforces Surat’s transformation from being only a textile manufacturing hub to becoming a key contributor to global sustainability initiatives.