GSCS International Ltd, a global leader in certification and assessment services, recently hosted the SustainSphere 2.0 program in Sri Lanka, focused on advancing sustainability in the apparel industry. The event attracted a diverse audience, including representatives from academic institutions, government agencies, trade associations, and client organisations, all united in exploring sustainable development’s future.

The program featured keynote speeches by Dr. Harshini Mallawarachchi from the University of Moratuwa, who discussed the Circular Economy as a pathway for net-zero apparel manufacturing, and Adhil Khasim, Deputy Director General of the Employers’ Federation of Ceylon, who addressed innovative approaches to social and labor compliance in Sri Lanka.

A panel discussion chaired by GSCS International’s Managing Director, Abdul Mottaleb, explored how innovation can drive sustainability. Panelists included industry leaders such as N.S. Gamage from the Central Environmental Authority, Leonie Vaas of Hirdaramani Group, Dr. Mallawarachchi, and Yohan Lawrence, Secretary General of the Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF), who highlighted the importance of sustainable practices across various sectors.

SustainSphere 2.0 signifies a shift toward making sustainability essential across all industries, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Yohan Lawrence noted the apparel industry’s proactive steps towards embracing sustainability, emphasising that collaboration among stakeholders is vital for long-term success. GSCS continues to lead in professional certification, helping organisations navigate sustainable development challenges while remaining competitive in the global market.