Six companies join the Zero Hunger Pledge with a focus on workforce nutrition and clean water
Six companies have pledged nearly USD 1.5 million to support projects promoting clean water and the nutrition of their employees. With their pledges, these companies have indicated their commitment to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Five of these pledges are the direct result of support from the Workforce Nutrition Alliance (WNA) in Bangladesh — an initiative convened by GAIN, a Zero Hunger Pledge technical partner, that focuses on improving the health and well-being of workers across both formal and informal sectors. This collaborative effort highlights the essential role of workforce nutrition in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero hunger), SDG 3 (Good health and well-being) and SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth). Earlier this year, 12 companies from Bangladesh joined the Pledge through the WNA.
Introducing the new pledges
Clear Tex Industries is an apparel manufacturer based in Bangladesh that produces knitted and woven garments for export. To improve the well-being of its nearly 700 employees, the company has committed to invest in initiatives that provide nutritious food and health support.
According to its HR Officer Mr Md. Harunur Rashid: “The Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge is a valuable initiative for both workers and business owners. Therefore, we have joined this process and are committed to the Pledge to help ensure workers’ satisfaction and well-being.”
Environmental & Public Health International (EPHI) is a private advisory firm dedicated to protecting public health in communities by improving drinking water quality. It offers the Lead Service Line Replacement Cost Calculator (LSLRCC) which is a free, multilingual tool that allows governments and utilities to model and finance the replacement of toxic lead service lines. As part of its commitment to the UN SDGs, EPHI has conducted a global awareness campaign to promote its Cost Calculator in over 150 countries.
According to its Founder and Director Anthony Ross: "Achieving zero hunger begins with ensuring access to safe drinking water. Through the Zero Hunger Pledge, EPHI reaffirms its mission to empower communities and governments with evidence-based tools that link clean water, nutrition, and sustainable development."
HK-TG Garments, based in Bangladesh, produces various types of apparel, including jackets, trousers, and jeans, for export. The factory joined the Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge to support the well-being of its more than 400 employees through various initiatives that promote sustainable practices aligned with achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 2: Zero Hunger.
According to its General Manager, Antazul Hoq: “Workers’ wellbeing is part of our business motto. When workers are satisfied and their health and nutrition are ensured, it contributes directly to our company’s growth. Therefore, we are joining the Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge, facilitated by GAIN, to promote and ensure the wellbeing of our workers.”
Salam Jute Mills produces jute yarns in Bangladesh for worldwide markets. As part of its commitment to ensuring the well-being of its employees, the company will provide healthy snacks at regular intervals.
According to its Manager Bashir Ahmed: “Workers are the driving force of any company or factory, and we believe that even small initiatives for their wellbeing can significantly enhance both health and productivity.”
Shun Shing Cement Mills is a producer, trader, and transporter of cement, cementitious materials, and solid fuels based in Bangladesh. To foster a healthier workforce, the company has committed to providing nutritious snacks to employees during working hours. It is a subsidiary of Shun Shing Group based in Hong Kong.
According to its Assistant General Manager for Human Resources, Mr. Md. Fazlur Rahman: “Good health is vital not only for individuals but also for companies and the nation’s overall development. To contribute to a hunger-free world, we are partnering with government and non-government organizations to secure a better future for the next generations”.
Established in 2019, Top Moon Fashion employs over 500 workers in the design and manufacture of high-quality garments in Bangladesh. As part of its commitment to prioritize its employees, the company has pledged to support worker well-being initiatives, including nutrition and health-related programmes.
According to its HR Executive Faisul Arefin: “We welcome the Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge initiative facilitated by GAIN. This will help ensure workers’ satisfaction and well-being, which will positively impact productivity and overall business growth. Therefore, we are pleased to be part of this initiative.”
The Zero Hunger Private Sector Pledge welcomes these new commitments and calls on companies of all sizes and from around the world to advance the global goal of ending hunger and malnutrition. To date, companies have pledged nearly USD 800 million.