In the intricate landscape of the global home textile industry, Indo Count Industries Limited (ICIL) emerges as a leading force, not only for its comprehensive bed linen solutions but also for its unwavering commitment to sustainability and community engagement. As we navigate through the threads of our presence in this dynamic sector, it becomes evident that our strategic initiatives and collaborations are not just about business growth but about weaving a sustainable and responsible future.
Investment in solar power generation project in Gujarat: One of the cornerstones of our commitment to sustainability is the investment of approximately Rs. 50 crores in a Solar Power Generation Project in Gujarat.Through the installation of solar panels, approximately 14+ million units of electricity will be generated annually. This initiative aligns with our vision of reducing our carbon footprint and embracing clean energy solutions. By harnessing solar power, we not only contribute to environmental preservation but also showcase our dedication to sustainable business practices. We also intend to invest in green energy significantly and reduce of our dependence of using conventional energy
Sustainability initiatives: At Indo Count, we are actively engaged in several sustainability initiatives, ranging from Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), Organic, and Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton development to promoting Kasturi cotton to enhance the brand value of Indian cotton. These initiatives underscore our commitment to responsible sourcing and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that our products are not only of high quality but also ethically produced.
Centre of Excellence: Indo Count Industries Ltd has collaborated with state government of Maharashtra and PDKV (Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidhyalaya, Akola) to set up a centre of excellence for Cotton at Ekarjuna in Chandrapur district of Maharashtra in 2021. It will be a first centre of excellence for cotton in India, which is demonstrating the cotton growing farmers various techniques to increase yield of cotton with objective to increase their household income for better standard of living. The centre will demonstrate the farmers about different types of cotton like BCI cotton, organic cotton, coloured cotton, long staple cotton, high yield cotton, pink boll warm resistance cotton. A building is being constructed at centre, which will be having library of different variety of seeds. Cotton farmer can visit the centre and take training from the agricultural staff and get knowledge about technical know-how, use of intensive package of practices, availability of good quality seed and disease and pest control measures.
Collaboration with Partech Seeds: Our strategic partnership with Partech Seeds reflects our commitment to supporting farmers in achieving better yields. Through research into various cotton seed varieties, we aim to empower farmers with sustainable and technologically advanced agricultural practices, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the agricultural community.
Organic Cotton and Pure Earth Collection: To enhance our sustainable offerings, we have embraced organic cotton and plant-based dyes for our Pure Earth collection. Utilizing plant-based dyes synthesized from non-edible waste by-products, such as nutshells, leaves, and residues from plants like beets and bitter oranges, we ensure a Pure Earth collection that is not only ethically produced but also minimizes the impact on the environment.
Tie up with EY for sustainability initiatives: In our pursuit of sustainability, Indo Count has forged a strategic alliance with Ernst & Young (EY). This collaboration ensures that our sustainability initiatives are guided by the best practices, industry insights, and innovative solutions. By partnering with EY, we strengthen our commitment to not only meeting but exceeding global sustainability standards. like UNGP, COP, SBTi, BRSR, DJSI etc.
Regenerative Cotton: In a paradigm shift towards cotton sustainability, we are enhancing our Reloop collection with bedding made from regenerative cotton. This holistic farming approach improves soil fertility, captures and stores atmospheric CO2, diversifies farms, and enhances water and energy management. The Reloop collection represents a stride towards unlocking economic, environmental, and social benefits, creating a circular approach by seamlessly integrating regenerative cotton with plant waste-based fibers. The Rekoop brand offers differentiated sustainable concepts that reduce landfill waste with soft sheets in various constructions, contributing to a more circular and sustainable approach.
Waste water treatment: Our dedication to sustainability extends to the conservation of water resources. Through consistent efforts in wastewater treatment, we have successfully reduced freshwater consumption, aligning our operations with responsible water management practices. This initiative is not only a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship but also ensures the longevity of this vital resource. Our commitment to water conservation is reflected in our goal to reduce freshwater consumption from 50% to 25%. Through modernized Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) facilities, we recycle and reuse water, contributing to responsible water management practices.
ZDHC Progressive Level Certification: We also take pride in achieving the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Progressive Level Certification. This certification underscores our commitment to best chemical management practices, setting a global benchmark for responsible and ethical manufacturing in the textile industry. It reflects our dedication to providing consumers with products that meet the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
Plastic Reduction and Recycling: Indo Count Industries is actively reducing plastic consumption and promoting sustainable fiber products. Our initiatives include the recycling of plastic waste, reduction in plastic usage, and the promotion of sustainable fiber products. replacement of plastic packing of finished goods. We have replaced plastics with biodegradable materials like Cotton, paper in majority of customer packaging. We have replaced PVC bags packaging to Self-fabric bag, approx 250+ MT GHG emissions are reduced annually by reduction of this plastic usage in packaging. We use recyclable category of care labels wherever applicable. We also are using recycled PET Bottles to make polyester blend yarn and fabric contributing towards Circular Economy.
As the global home textile market is poised to reach $60 billion by 2025, our strategic acquisition of the Bhilad unit has significantly increased our total bed linen capacity to 153 million meters. This expansion positions us as the largest global provider of comprehensive bed linen solutions, ready to meet the growing demands of the market. In the backdrop of the Government of India’s executed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Australia and the UAE, and ongoing negotiations with the UK, Canada, EU, and GCC, the Indian home textile industry is poised for significant growth. These FTAs not only open up new markets for Indian home textile exports but also provide a level playing field for industry players.
In conclusion, our presence in the home textile industry is not merely about market dominance; it’s about crafting a sustainable and responsible legacy. Our strategic initiatives, collaborations, and commitment to sustainability echo our vision of weaving a future where quality, innovation, and responsibility are seamlessly entwined.
