LocationsGreen Chemistry in Companies
June 19, 2025
Creating a Sustainable Future through Innovative Production Approaches
In an industry that globally faces challenges related to emissions, waste, and intensive resource consumption, the domestic company Alma Ras d.o.o. from Visoko is setting new standards in sustainable business practices. As the most recognized brand in Bosnia and Herzegovina's textile industry and a leader in the production of fine underwear and sleepwear, Alma Ras is proving that economic success can - and must - go hand in hand with environmental preservation.
Alma Ras is one of 13 companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina where UNDP, with financial support from Sweden, implemented green chemistry measures through the project component "Implementation of Green Chemistry Principles in the Industrial Sector". These efforts are contributing to a broader transformation towards more sustainable and responsible production processes.
Central to these efforts is the substitution of chemicals that are harmful to the environment and human health with greener, safer alternatives - protecting workers, consumers, and nature alike.
The replacement of chemicals harmful to the environment and human health with greener, safer alternatives.
The company has taken these efforts a step further by introducing solutions to use production waste as an alternative fuel - reducing landfill waste and harmful gas emissions.
In parallel, measures to improve energy efficiency were implemented across production facilities, not only reducing the environmental footprint but also generating long-term savings and supporting business sustainability.
The company has introduced solutions for utilizing production waste as an alternative fuel.
“As a company committed to environmental protection and the achievement of sustainable development goals, we seize every opportunity to expand our knowledge and keep pace with modern trends. Through this project with UNDP, we gained valuable insights, access to expert advice, and measures that delivered tangible results at our major facilities - from energy efficiency improvements to better resource utilization,”
said Rešad Behlulović, Director of General and Legal Affairs at Alma Ras.
Rešad Behlulović, Director of General and Legal Affairs at Alma Ras
The collaboration with UNDP has also helped raise internal awareness about the importance of sustainability. Sustainable principles are becoming increasingly embedded into daily operations, while green chemistry has been recognized as a key area for continued advancement.
Employees have undergone training, and the principles of green chemistry have become an integral part of the organizational culture.
Thanks to this comprehensive approach, Alma Ras was awarded the 2025 Business Leader Award for Sustainable Development in the category “Resources and Environment” for large enterprises—affirming its strategic commitment to green transformation, responsible resource management, and the implementation of innovative technologies.
Business Leader Award Ceremony for Sustainable Development
As a company with sustainability at the core of its business vision, Alma Ras is actively contributing to the development of a circular economy. Through its Sustainability 2030+ framework, the company continues to shape long-term goals focused on nature protection, community support, and strengthening consumer trust.
This transformation is the result of joint efforts by Alma Ras, UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Sweden, as part of initiatives and projects aimed at developing concrete solutions that foster greener and safer industrial development across the country. UNDP and Sweden will continue to support the implementation of measures through the Green Transition Portfolio - supporting the development of an industrial sector that is sustainable, competitive, and responsible, with a strong focus on human health and environmental protection.