Antalya:Bangladesh has emphasized the significance of jute in climate discussions during the 31st Conference of Parties (COP31) by hosting an event at the Jute Pavilion in the Green Zone in Antalya, Turkey.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the session was organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Ministry of Textiles and Jute and industry partners. It highlighted how jute, a fibre deeply embedded in Bangladesh's heritage, can contribute significantly to global climate action.
Jute, referred to as the 'golden fibre,' is carbon-negative during cultivation and completely biodegradable. Presenters at the event noted that one hectare of jute can absorb up to 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide in a growing season, with soil carbon gains continuing post-harvest. Its applications now extend beyond traditional uses to include biodegradable shopping bags, geotextiles, automotive composites, and advanced materials like nanocellulose. Additionally, jute sticks are being repurposed into charcoal and activated carbon.
Economically, raw jute priced at approximately US$ 1,200 per tonne can yield $2,400-2,500 as packaging and $4,000-5,000 as blended fibre goods. Bangladesh plans to double jute export earnings to $1.64 billion by 2031 and increase the share of value-added products from 45 percent to 70 percent. Solar-powered, carbon-neutral jute mills were mentioned as examples of traditional industries leading the way in clean energy.
Looking forward, officials highlighted priorities such as nanocellulose research, accredited testing laboratories, digital traceability, and compliance with new EU environmental regulations, as well as fostering South-South and North-South partnerships. Jute was linked to COP31 themes, including mitigation, plastic pollution, adaptation, and sustainable industrialization for developing countries.
Bangladesh invites buyers, investors, and technology partners to visit the Bangladesh Jute Pavilion in the Green Zone during the conference.