Dhaka, Bangladesh (BBN)- The central bank of Bangladesh has extended its green banking refinance scheme through including two more textile sub-sectors aiming to facilitate renewable energy and environment-friendly activities in Bangladesh.

The members of Bangladesh Garments Accessories and Packaging Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGAPMEA) and Bangladesh Terry Towel and Linen Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BTTLMEA) will be eligible for low cost fund from the banks and the non-banking financial institutions (NBFIs) at 9.0 per cent, according to a circular, issued by the Bangladesh Bank (BB) on Sunday.
 

“The central bank has extended its green banking refinancing scheme in the wake of growing demand for renewable energy and environment-friendly activities in the country,” a BB senior official told BBN in Dhaka.

The inclusion of the new areas came as part of the BB’s efforts to expand renewable energy and environment-friendly technology, he explained.

The central banker also said the members of two trade bodies are now included for receiving such refinancing facility to ensure safe working environment for their workers.   

Currently, 47 green products under nine categories are getting the low-cost funds under the BB’s refinancing scheme.

The BB formed a BDT 2.0 billion revolving fund in 2009 for the banks and NBFIs to offer loans at low interest in solar energy, biogas and effluent treatment sectors aiming to help reduce industrial pollution and increase the power supply.

BBN/SSR/AD-18Jan15-10:34 pm (BST)