Arvind, Gap Inc. partner to transform water management

Arvind Ltd., an Indian textile conglomerate, and US apparel company Gap Inc. have announced the opening of the Global Water Innovation Centre for Action (GWICA) at Arvind’s Santej unit. This initiative aims to transform water management practices in the global textile and apparel industry.

The GWICA serves as a collaborative platform for various stakeholders, including apparel companies, manufacturing suppliers, sustainability experts, academics, and environmental advocates. Covering 18,000 sq. ft., the center is constructed using sustainable materials. It water stewardship activities that replenish water to nature, fostering collective efforts to enhance water resilience for ecosystems and communities influenced by the apparel industry worldwide.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainability, collaboration, and tangible change in the apparel manufacturing sector. Arvind’s sustainability strategy, “Fundamentally Right,” focuses on making all key inputs 100% sustainable, with water as a crucial milestone. Their major manufacturing facilities now feature Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) systems, leading to a 93% reduction in wastewater discharge.

Punit Lalbhai, Vice Chairman and Executive Director of Arvind Ltd, highlighted the dedication to transformative change in the apparel manufacturing industry. Gap Inc., a long-term partner for Arvind, also aims to achieve water neutrality in its manufacturing and owned facilities by 2030, aiming to provide clean water and sanitation access to 5 million people in the apparel industry.

Gap Inc. President & CEO Richard Dickson expressed that by combining expertise and resources, Arvind and Gap Inc. are “building a more water-resilient future” for the apparel industry and the communities they operate in.