ASM & ASSOCIATES

Environment Clearance

Environment Clearance

In Bangladesh, obtaining an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) is mandatory for establishing and operating industrial units and projects, as stipulated by the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Act, 1995 (amended in 2010). The Department of Environment (DoE) oversees the issuance of these certificates to ensure that industrial activities comply with environmental standards.

Categories of Industrial Units and Projects:

Industrial units and projects are classified based on their potential environmental impact:

  1. Green Category: These projects have minimal or no adverse effects on the environment.​

  2. Orange-A Category: Projects with moderate environmental impacts.​

  3. Orange-B Category: Projects with significant environmental impacts.​

  4. Red Category: Projects with the most substantial adverse environmental effect

    Procedure for Obtaining an Environmental Clearance Certificate:

    The process varies depending on the project’s category:

    1. Green Category:

      • Application: Submit an application using Form-3 to the DoE, including details such as the project’s name, location, and a description of raw materials and finished products.

      • Documents: Provide a location map, trade license, and a no-objection certificate from local authorities.​

      • Fee: Pay the prescribed fee based on the project’s investment amount.​

      • Issuance: The DoE issues the ECC within 15 days of receiving the application.

    2. Orange-A and Orange-B Categories:

      • Site Clearance: Obtain a Site Clearance Certificate from the DoE before starting construction.​

      • Application: After site clearance, apply for the ECC using Form-3, including additional documents like a process flow diagram and layout plan showing the location of the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP).​

      • Documents: Submit an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report, effluent discharge arrangements, and a relocation and rehabilitation plan if applicable.​

      • Fee: Pay the application fee as specified by the DoE.​

      • Issuance: The DoE issues the ECC within 30 days of receiving the application.​

    3. Red Category:

      • Location Clearance: Obtain a Location Clearance Certificate from the DoE before initiating any development.​

      • EIA Approval: Conduct a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and obtain approval.​

      • Application: Apply for the ECC using Form-3, providing comprehensive project details, EIA report, and ETP design.​

      • Documents: Include a feasibility study report, process flow diagram, and emergency environmental hazard mitigation plans.​

      • Fee: Pay the application fee as determined by the DoE.​

      • Issuance: The DoE issues the ECC within 60 days of receiving the application.​

    Validity and Renewal:

    • Green Category: ECC is valid for 3 years. Apply for renewal at least 30 days before expiration.

    • Orange-A, Orange-B, and Red Categories: ECC is valid for 1 year. Renewal applications should be submitted at least 30 days prior to expiry.​

    For detailed procedures, required documents, and fee structures, refer to the official guidelines provided by the Department of Environment