NDP Leader Carole James announced a plan on Thursday to launch a funding program she says would stimulate jobs and economic investment in?the province while reducing greenhouse gases.

B.C. Green Bonds would be issued for sale in $1-billion increments each year for 10 years.

James said the funds would create 15,000 new, green jobs in the province’s construction, manufacturing, transportation and service sectors.

“Our economic partners across Canada and in the U.S. are looking for opportunities to invest in new green technology and energy alternatives,” James said.

“My B.C. Green Bond plan will … create opportunities to build the new green economy and stimulate job growth while reducing greenhouse gases and fighting climate change.”

Money would be invested in six areas, including low-interest loans to households and businesses for home and office retrofitting, and funding for greener upgrades to public infrastructure and transportation.

The proposal also includes providing loans to businesses that convert commercial fleets to low emission alternatives and a Green Technology Fund to help institutions develop eco-friendly technological advances.

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