In a collaborative effort to tackle water challenges prevalent in the global textile and apparel industry, Arvind Ltd and Gap Inc have officially inaugurated the Global Water Innovation Centre For Action (GWICA). The cutting-edge center, located at Arvind's Santej unit near Ahmedabad, stands as a pioneering facility for testing industrial effluents and operates as an innovation hub for apparel companies and industry stakeholders.

The inauguration ceremony, held at Santej, was presided over by Punit Lalbhai, Vice-Chairman and Executive Director of Arvind Ltd, and Richard Dickson, President and CEO of Gap Inc. Lalbhai highlighted the state-of-the-art laboratory within GWICA, equipped to test wastewater streams globally and offer comprehensive analysis and improvement recommendations. The center is poised to receive NABL accreditation, ensuring third-party validation for its test results.

Emphasizing the self-sustaining aspect of GWICA, Lalbhai stated that the testing facility will operate as a separate profit center, contributing to funding the center's activities. He underscored the inclusive nature of the center, stating, "Gap and Arvind are laying only the first brick. This center is for everyone. We will publicize the engagement model as this evolves."

At the core of GWICA is an R&D laboratory designed to serve as a launchpad for piloting and incubating innovative water solutions. Lalbhai reiterated Arvind's commitment to water conservation, highlighting the company's exclusive use of fresh water for human consumption at its units, while recycled water is employed in textile production. "We need as much water as the city of Ahmedabad needs for drinking to make our textiles. Not a drop of fresh water is used in textile production. It is all recycled," Lalbhai added.

GWICA aspires to become an open-source repository for water management in apparel manufacturing and will offer comprehensive training programs to support industry-wide sustainability efforts. This collaborative initiative signifies a steadfast commitment to addressing environmental concerns and promoting responsible water usage in the textile and apparel sector.