Supporting the transition to a sustainable industry

The sustainable transformation of industry is a major challenge that needs to be addressed to facilitate more environmentally-friendly production and favourable working conditions for all. Proparco works to promote social and environmental standards in line with international norms, conducive to creating decent jobs and the use of clean technologies.

The sustainable transformation of industry is a major challenge that needs to be addressed to facilitate more environmentally-friendly production and favourable working conditions for all. Proparco works to promote social and environmental standards in line with international norms, conducive to creating decent jobs and the use of clean technologies.

Helping textile industry players to deploy the highest environmental and social standards

Proparco finances companies that pioneer environmental practices (recycling of waste, wastewater treatment, sustainable energy) and responsible practices in terms of wages, working conditions and gender equality.

For businesses with a significant proportion of women employees, Proparco systematically seeks out opportunities to improve gender equality and promote female career development. If the relevant criteria are met, projects can qualify for the 2X Challenge, a certification programme that showcases projects with an enlightened approach to female employment (in terms of internal policies, procedures, etc.) and where the proportion of women employed is high at different levels of the company.

Project focus - With Proparco, gender equality is moving centre stage in the Bangladesh textile industry

In December 2021, Proparco granted Ananta Huaxiang Ltd a ten-year loan of US$13.8 million, enabling this major player in the Bangladeshi textile industry to continue to grow its production of high-quality sweaters. Proparco's support is backed up by a technical assistance programme aimed at improving health education (contraception, family planning, cancer prevention, etc.) through training organised for all of the company's female employees.

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Promoting circular economy models

Buoyed by societal expectations and environmental regulations, the circular economy lies at the heart of shifting industrial practices. Proparco supports the emergence of innovative solutions based around material recycling and the deployment of sustainable manufacturing processes.

Project focus - In India, Proparco is helping GRP Ltd to grow its tyre recycling business

GRP Limited is a tyre recycling company with six production sites in four locations and a total annual capacity of 87,200 tonnes (MTPA). The €15 million line of credit will enable the company to increase the production capacity of its existing lines (particularly for recycled rubber), and to launch a new innovative production line dedicated to recycled carbon black and biofuels.

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Helping new decarbonisation projects to get off the ground

Industry needs to transform its practices to generate lower emissions with the least possible negative impact on the planet's resources. Recycled inputs, green energy, waste recovery and new technologies are just some of the many ways to promote more sustainable pathways. Proparco works alongside visionary players who are committed to decarbonising their production.

Project focus - In Turkey, Proparco is supporting Sanko Group’s sustainable development strategy

Sanko Group, one of Turkey's largest conglomerates, obtained a €37 million senior loan facility in 2021 to support its textile subsidiary's decarbonisation strategy. The funds were earmarked for the installation of 33.5 MW of solar panels, a plastic recycling line to manufacture polyester yarn, a water filtration system and the replacement of coal-fired boilers with gas-fired boilers.

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Helping African heavy industry to grow in line with the highest standards

In Africa, Proparco encourages business leaders to build new production capacities using best environmental technologies. Boosting this sector and consolidating its value chain is essential for ensuring the construction of essential infrastructure and for responding to the challenges of the continent's growing population and increasing urbanisation.

Project focus – Meeting the demand for infrastructure in West Africa

In 2021, IFC, EAIF and Proparco teamed up to help CIMAF to grow its cement production in Guinea, Gabon and Senegal. This financing, totalling more than €161 million, includes a €33.75 million loan from Proparco that will help to build a new state-of-the-art integrated cement plant. The financial support is rounded out by TA to improve energy efficiency, increase the use of renewable energy and alternative fuels, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

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