Yerevan /Mediamax/. “HSBC Bank Armenia” and “Children of Armenia” Fund (COAF) signed an agreement in Yerevan today on implementing “Plastic Bags Free Communities – Environmental Protection and Business Development Opportunities in Rural Areas” project.

Mediamax reports that within the framework of this project, which will last till June, 2010, the sides will empower women in rural areas of Armavir marz in producing multiple use bags. The program aims at stimulating women’s entrepreneurship in rural areas, as well as reducing plastic bag use.

The chain of “Star” supermarkets will render assistance in spreading multiple use bags.

“HSBC Bank Armenia” Chief Executive Officer Tim Slater noted importance of realizing such a campaign, stating that the bank has allocated $25 thousand for the program. The total budget of the program makes $36 thousand.