130 banks around the world have signed the Principles for Responsible Banking.
Here you can find the complete list of Founding Signatories to the Principles for Responsible Banking.
Below are statements made by bank CEOs about becoming a Signatory:
Francisco Botas, CEO, ABANCA
“Corporate social responsibility is a strategic priority for ABANCA and our goal is to always promote actions that serve as a boost for social improvement and sustainable growth and that are in line with the ten principles of the Global Pact and with the Sustainable Development Goals approved by United Nations. That is why we have not hesitated to join this new initiative of Principles for Responsible Banking that is consonant with our model of responsible and sustainable banking”
Kees van Dijkhuizen, CEO, ABN AMRO
“ABN AMRO endorses the Principles for Responsible Banking because we believe that responsible relations with our customers, shareholders, employees and society at large give us (competitive) advantage in building trust, supporting sustainable development and creating positive impact through banking. These Principles for Responsible Banking reinforce our commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN SDG’s that sit at the heart of our strategy. By joining forces as a financial sector, we are able to shape the future for generations to come”
Herbert Wigwe, CEO, Access Bank
“There is a greater need now, more than ever, to promote sustainability in the global financial sector. This is therefore the right time to launch the global Principles for Responsible Banking. At Access Bank, we are committed to setting standards and engendering innovative solutions that address social, economic and environmental challenges. We believe that the Sustainable Development Goals will be better achieved if we can work together, using these Principles as a guide.”
Dante Campioni, CEO and Managing Director, ALEXBANK
“ALEXBANK, as part of Intesa Sanpaolo’s Group, is proud to be one of the first banks in Egypt to endorse the Principles for Responsible Banking. Also considering Egypt’s 2030 Vision, ALEXBANK is taking another step in evolving and adapting to the changing environment, by establishing a dynamic and innovative approach to conduct its operations based on the logics of sustainable development.”
Colin Hunt, Chief Executive Officer, AIB
“AIB is delighted to be a Founding Signatory of the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking. We welcome the opportunity to work collectively with other banks to make a significant impact on sustainable development for everyone. We are backing our customers in addressing the transition to a low-carbon economy and look forward to further aligning our activities to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. This announcement demonstrates our commitment to leading the sustainability agenda in Ireland.”
Vassilios E. Psaltis, CEO, ALPHA BANK
“At Alpha Bank we are already implementing a range of Corporate Responsibility policies and practices aimed at promoting sustainable development through all areas of our daily operations. By endorsing the six Principles for Responsible Banking as defined by the UNEP FI, of which we are a member since 2004, we are firmly declaring our commitment to create a sustainable banking system and intensifying our collective efforts in this direction, by increasing our positive footprint in society and the environment, leveraging new business opportunities and creating value for all stakeholders”.
Keith Mestrich, CEO, Amalgamated Bank
“As America’s socially responsible bank, Amalgamated Bank is committed to advancing environmental sustainability through our operations, the clients we partner with, and through participation in collective movements like the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. We are proud to join forces with the UNEP FI and our fellow signatory banks to address social and environmental challenges through shared ambitions and accountability.”
Sherif Elwy, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Arab African International Bank
“After 16 years of AAIB’s journey in addressing environmental and social pillars of development in our practices, it gives us the pride and pleasure to be part of the movement towards responsible banking. Those Principles are essential to sustain the growth of the financial industry”
Benedikt Gíslason, CEO, Arion Bank
“At Arion Bank we place great importance on working responsibly and in harmony with society and the environment. The Principles for Responsible Banking are in close accordance with the Bank’s strategy and we are delighted to become one of the Founding Signatories. I firmly believe that it is vital to strengthen international cooperation in the financial sector with regard to sustainability and responsible banking. It is a prerequisite for achieving the key goals set out in the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. We look forward to working together and hope to learn from other financial institutions and to share our own experience, on issues such as equality, the environment and innovation, for example.”
Shayne Elliott, CEO, Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited
“The Principles align with our purpose. Through our customer relationships and the products and services we offer, we want to make our contribution to solving society’s social and environmental challenges.”
Stefania Bariatti, Chairwoman, Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena
“Monte dei Paschi di Siena is the oldest bank in operation in the world today and has always been committed to contributing to a model of sustainable development for the communities in which it operates. By becoming members and signing the Principles for Responsible Banking we intend to strengthen our commitment to a sustainable development model and share excellent practices with a network of financial institutions allied in pursuing these goals.”
Raúl Alemán, CEO, Banco General
Since its founding in 1955 Banco General has sought the sustainable development of its business with a long-term vision and with the commitment to create value for all its stakeholders. We have signed the Principles for Responsible Banking to further strengthen this commitment, and join a banking community that, like us, firmly believes that we can help create and finance a more prosperous future for all.
Celina Padilla Meardi, Presidente/President, Banco Hipotecario de El Salvador
“Banco Hipotecario es un actor importante en el desarrollo económico y social del país, por ello debemos de ser líderes y ejemplo de El Salvador con nuestro compromiso a los Principios de Banca Responsable.”
“Banco Hipotecario is a key actor in the economic and social development of El Salvador, we must act as leaders and be an example, and that is why Banco Hipotecario is signatory to the Principles for Responsible Banking”
Christopher Paniagua, CEO, Banco Popular Dominicano
“As the largest private bank in the Dominican Republic, we feel it is our duty to play a prominent role in creating a more sustainable world, especially here at home. As part of our Corporate Culture, we want to serve our customers, employees, shareholders and community in a way that contributes to social, environmental and economic progress.”
John Keith, CEO, Banco Promerica Costa Rica
“Our society is facing serious challenges. The world is at a crossroads and each of us needs to play an active role in shaping the future. At Banco Promerica Costa Rica, we understand our responsibility to all our stakeholders and to the world we aspire to achieve. Banks are agents of change; we believe in the Sustainable Development Goals, and are determined to support those goals with our daily banking activities. We are proud to endorse the Principles for Responsible Banking.”
Jaime Guardiola, Consejero Delegado, Banco Sabadell
“Banco Sabadell, desde 1881, y a través de todas las personas que han formado y forman parte de la organización, ha construido un sistema de valores, una forma de hacer, que incluye desde los inicios, su compromiso con la sociedad. Hoy, a ese compromiso, se suma la adhesión del banco a los Principios de banca Responsable. En Banco Sabadell minimizamos los impactos ambientales de procesos, instalaciones y servicios inherentes a la actividad, a través de la gestión energética, la contratación de energías renovables y el uso de edificaciones sostenibles, y además, en relación al negocio, fomentamos el desarrollo de un modelo energético sostenible a través de la inversión y financiación en energías renovables, la emisión de bonos sostenibles o nuevos modelos de movilidad. Nos proponemos desarrollar medidas para ser más eficientes y lograr una prosperidad compartida por las generaciones actuales y futuras.”
José Sevilla, CEO, Bankia
“We are very proud to be one of the founding signatory banks of the Principles for Responsible Banking promoted by the United Nations. It is important to assume a public commitment that highlights the need for a responsible business model focused on promoting sustainable development and contributing to the improvement of the environment and the fight against climate change”.
Juan Carlos Argüello, CEO, Banpro Grupo Promerica Nicaragua
“We live in times where digital media constantly reminds us about the consequences of environmental destruction. This has convinced us, at Banpro Grupo Promerica, that sustainability must be at the core of our organization; therefore, we must be at the forefront of changing the attitudes of our employees and customers by adopting sustainable actions for the benefit of everyone and most importantly future generations.”
Mohamed Mahmoud El-Etreby, Chairman, Banque Misr
“As Egypt’s first national bank, Banque Misr has been supporting the Egyptian Economy, assisting the society to reach sustainable development and helping people achieve their ambitions for the past 100 years. Today, Banque Misr carries on with its responsibility towards delivering not only commercial value to its shareholders, but also providing all our stakeholders as well as the wider community with prosperous and sustainable value. At Banque Misr, we have acknowledged the vital role of sustainability on financial and non-financial strategic goals. Thus, we have embedded sustainability in our Five-Year Strategic Plan and aim at fully endorsing SDGs as well as supporting Egypt’s 2030 Vision.”
Luis Rodríguez González, Chairman, Banco de Crédito Social Cooperativo-Grupo Cajamar
“The Principles for Responsible Banking promoted by the United Nations Environment Program are in line with the business model and with the ethical management system of Grupo Cooperativo Cajamar from cooperative banking we help promote and boost sustainable business activity, so our support for this initiative will undoubtedly contribute to creating greater awareness in society, as well as aligning banking activity with strong ethical and responsibility principles. The activity of Grupo Cooperativo Cajamar is singular and socially committed, and goes beyond mere funding, being linked to sustainable development and progress and geared at achieving a more just and balanced society. Hence, the performance of cooperative banking is not considered as an end in itself but as an instrument at the service of society.”
Jes Staley, Group Chief Executive, Barclays
“Only in a sustainable society that uses its resources in a responsible manner can our clients, customers, businesses and communities thrive. We want to use our services, products and relationships to support and accelerate the fundamental changes in economies and in lifestyles needed to achieve shared prosperity for current and future generations.”
Carlos Torres Vila, Executive Chairman, BBVA
“The Principles for Responsible Banking are our collective response to align the banking business with long-term goals that integrate social and environmental challenges. These principles will definitely help us to become better banks and reinforce the sustainability of the whole financial system. The future of Finance is financing thinking about the Future.”
Kat Taylor, Co-founder & CEO, Beneficial State Bank
“If we don’t get the fundamental institutions of the world right in the first place, we will never clean up after them with all the governmental or philanthropic resources in the world. It’s time to change the banking system for good. At Beneficial State Bank, we are banking with our values every day and declaring them out loud. To align our business with the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement is just natural. That’s our DNA — to show up in support of people and the planet every time.”
Othman BENJELLOUN, Chairman and CEO, BMCE Bank of Africa
“BMCE Bank of Africa supports the impact-based transformation in the financial services industry and we joined Responsible Banking Principles community to better define, mainstream, and track objectives aligned with SDGs and sustainable growth in Africa.”
Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, Director and Chief Executive Officer, BNP Paribas
“We are proud to be a founding member of UNEP-FI’s Principles for Responsible Banking. This initiative is the first in which such a large, global coalition of banks has committed to align their business strategies to the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. The Principles represent an important, collective step forward which will enable us to take further action on climate change and build a more sustainable and inclusive economy”
Tao Yiping, CEO, Industrial Bank (China)
“In line with social responsibility philosophy of “integrating righteousness into profitability”, Industrial Bank instills social responsibilities into our business behaviors. As a founding signatory of the Principles for Responsible Banking, Industrial Bank devotes itself to the banking sustainability and contributes to the community and economy’s sustainability.”
Gonzalo Gortázar, CEO, CaixaBank
“In CaixaBank, we are aware of the enormous accountability of the banking sector in the transition towards a more sustainable world. For this reason, we are absolutely committed to financial inclusion, financial culture and, of course, to the environment. We are a performance benchmark in socially responsible banking, due to our origins and thanks to our social vocation, and an ally of United Nations in the achievement of its Sustainable Development Objectives.”
Mike Corbat, CEO, Citi
“The Principles for Responsible Banking mirror our philosophy and approach to developing sustainable solutions alongside our clients and setting clear and ambitious targets. We remain laser focused on incorporating sustainability principles into everything we do to help ensure business success, improve our operations and contribute to a strong global economy. Our clients, colleagues and stakeholders expect no less.”
Ernesto Torres Cantú, CEO, Citibanamex
“The Principles for Responsible Banking confirm our commitment to a more sustainable banking industry; maximizing economic, environmental and social benefits for the communities where we operate, including our clients, investors and employees. Joining this initiative represents a milestone for our Corporate Citizenship Strategy that guides our labour as a financial intermediary to promote economic development, responsible finance, environmental care and equality in opportunities in Mexico.”
Martin Zielke, CEO, Commerzbank
“Sustainable action and protecting our climate are decisive factors in our futures. Irrespective of our own position, we all need to ask ourselves what consequences our decisions have on others – both now and in the future. Doing nothing is not an option. The new Principles for Responsible Banking provide clear guidance with which we are able to advance sustainability in cooperation with our clients and stakeholders. As a bank we can support the transformation of the real economy towards sustainability and this is exactly what the Principles for Responsible Banking demand.”
Oscar Hidalgo Chaves, CEO, Coopeservidores
“Como una cooperativa de ahorro y crédito comprometida con la responsabilidad social, en Coopeservidores trabajamos por transformar el bienestar económico, en bienestar social y ambiental para todos. Ser una de las empresas firmantes fundadoras de los Principios de la Banca Responsable reafirma ese compromiso con el bienestar integral de las personas y el cumplimiento de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible, lo cual, nos permitirá potenciar el impacto positivo que hemos generado en la economía, las comunidades y el medio ambiente en las últimas seis décadas. Estos principios serán nuestra bandera mientras continuamos en el camino de la sostenibilidad, porque creemos fielmente en un modelo de negocios rentable y que, al mismo tiempo, genere valor para la sociedad y el planeta.”
Tidjane Thiam, CEO, Credit Suisse Group
“As a bank we are an integral part of society. We have been a member of the UNEP FI since its launch in 1992, and we are among the first signatory banks to support its Principles for Responsible Banking. We recognise the importance of upholding international standards and best practices that promote responsible business conduct. We are committed to conducting our business with a long-term view and to make a contribution to the realisation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We intend to contribute to the transition to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.”
Chris Vogelzang, CEO, Danske Bank
“The Principles for Responsible Banking will guide and support us in our efforts to further integrate societal impact and sustainability across our business, which we firmly believe is necessary in order to be a successful bank”
Guy Cormier, CEO, Desjardins Group
“The brand of capitalism we’ve seen over the last 30 or 40 years has caused significant collateral damage, including increased inequality and unbridled resource consumption. We need to change course and take a more inclusive approach that ensures the sustainable use of the resources essential to human life. Desjardins is committed to the Principles for Responsible Banking because we think the future of a healthy society lies in more intercooperation, more engagement by all and more solidarity”
Christian Sewing, CEO, Deutsche Bank
“Deutsche Bank is committed to acting responsibly and to supporting the global sustainable development agenda. Climate protection must be a priority for us – in the way we extend credit, through the products we offer, the policies we implement. The Principles for Responsible Banking reflect this commitment very well. As a longstanding member of the UNEP Finance Initiative, we are pleased to be one of the founding signatories and contribute to establishing a common understanding of responsible banking practice worldwide.”
İbrahim ÖZTOP, CEO and Board Member, Development and Investment Bank of Turkey
“As a strong supporter of Turkey’s development initiatives in all areas of necessity since its establishment, Development and Investment Bank of Turkey aims to supplement government efforts and assume a bigger responsibility in leading the Turkish banking industry for promoting environmentally sustainable and socially responsible banking. Development and Investment Bank of Turkey, with the objective of making an effective contribution to the transition to a resource efficient and low carbon economy, always takes into account the environmental and social impacts of its activities. We believe that it is imperative to align our business with society’s goals as expressed in the SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement in order to perform a leading role in shaping a better future. We are proud to take part in this initiative and commit to the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking, which are in line with our business principles. Going forward, enshrining sustainability will continue to be Development and Investment Bank of Turkey’s main focus for achieving a stable and strong economy compatible with the development standards of the international finance world.”
Olaug Svarva, Chair of the Board, DNB
“All companies should contribute to solving the global challenges. As Norway’s largest financial institution, we are conscious of the fact that capital both provides an opportunity and a responsibility to influence and contribute positively to society. Through the Principles for Responsible Banking, this is lifted on the agenda for all banks worldwide. We are therefore a proud signatory.”
Paul Ellis, Chief Executive, Ecology Building Society
“Given the scale of the climate and ecological crisis, we need finance that serves people and planet. The Principles have the potential to drive systemic change, ensuring that the purpose of banking extends beyond profit to creating positive social and environmental impacts. Signing up to the Principles wasn’t a difficult decision for Ecology as we’ve been acting as pioneers of environmental finance since we were established. We’re proud to support these concerted efforts to build a sustainable future.”
Lisbet K. Nero, CEO, Fana Sparebank
“Fana Sparebank is an independent and local savings bank with its headquarters in Bergen, Norway. Established in 1878 with a clear social responsibility, helping to secure an economic foundation for the population was an important task. Today, we are a modern and viable savings bank that maintains its historical roots. We have taken on the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals, identifying ourselves with the importance of global achievement. On this day, we welcome the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative and the Principles for Responsible Banking. The Principles will serve as guidelines for us, and will help and motivate us to make necessary steps. We will contribute. Through our organization, our dedicated employees and our banking operations, we will do our utmost to reach the global goals for sustainable development.”
Adam Nuru, MD, First City Monument Bank
“The awareness is gaining global momentum as banks and other financial institutions come together to use the UNEP-FI framework as a guide for responsible banking. At FCMB, our innovative Corporate actions firmly reinstates our pledge to the 6 principles. We are also committed to building people, processes and system which enhances ground-breaking sustainable development activities and to resolve issues bothering on environmental, social and economic difficulties. It is our delight to be a member of the leading-call.”
Recep Baştuğ, CEO, Garanti BBVA
“September 2019 will take its place as a very important milestone for our sector in the coming years. The Principles for Responsible Banking, signed on this date, require us to put the planet and society at the heart of our decisions in all business areas within the Bank. It asks us to make sustainable development the cornerstone of our products and services. We, as responsible bankers, have committed ourselves not only to respond this call from the United Nations, but also to dedicate our own resources in forming the Principles. Since the beginning of 2018, Garanti BBVA has been in the Core Group of Banks who formed the Principles. Today, as Garanti BBVA, we support sustainable development with 34 different products and credit lines. Some of these have been recognized as firsts either in our country or even in the world. Now, while raising the bar even higher, the most important driving force we will need is collaboration. I believe that the Responsible Banking Principles will guide us all in taking big steps together in a very short period of time to respond the urging needs of Sustainable Development”
Charles Haresnape, CEO, Gatehouse Bank
“We are proud to be the only UK Shariah-compliant Bank to become a founding signatory of the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking. Gatehouse Bank is a growing force in UK banking and is committed to having a positive impact on the communities we serve. The Principles for Responsible Banking fit with the Bank’s ethical approach to finance and more importantly, will enable us to continuously review and develop our approach as a responsible provider.”
Jorge Vallarino Miranda, Gerente General, Global Bank
“Nos sentimos orgullosos por el compromiso de adhesión a los Principios de Banca Responsable, reafirmando nuestra voluntad de asumir y promover los principios entre las partes interesadas de la industria financiera y especialmente a nuestros miembros, clientes, colaboradores; para de esta forma, seguir apoyando cada día el desarrollo socio económico de Panamá”
Reto Ringger, CEO & Founder, Globalance Bank
“The financial industry is on the verge of a paradigm change. While other business sectors – the coal industry, the music industry and media world, to name just a few – have undergone dramatic change and developed further, the banking industry in many places is still operating the same way it did twenty years ago. The Principles for Responsible Banking engage our industry to drive change.”
Thomas Jorberg, CEO, GLS Bank
“In order to fight for a future that is suitable for our children and grandchildren, we are part of this global initiative to encourage other banks – as a role model and pioneer in sustainable finance. As a co-founder of the GABV – the Global Alliance of Banking on Values – GLS Bank hopes that UN PRB support the transformation needed to meet the Paris Agreement. This requires the integration of these criteria in the whole banking business. It is not only important to the GLS Bank’s future but necessary for each bank, for each company and each person to align themselves to the SDGs and the Paris Agreement in order to realize the transition to a carbon-free world.”
Norihiko Kato, CEO, Golomt Bank
“Golomt Bank is privileged to become a Founding Signatory of UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking and to actively work alongside the leading global banks to align banking sector with society’s goals. We declare our continuous commitments towards sustainable development, betterment of our society, and climate change mitigations with the help of strategic frameworks of the Principles for Responsible Banking”
Laurent MIGNON, Chairman of the Management Board / CEO, Groupe BPCE
“Through its support for UNEP FI, Groupe BPCE with Banque Populaire, Caisse d’Epargne and Natixis will strengthen its activities to focus on a more inclusive finance and a long-term sustainable economy. With this new framework, our group will fully embrace its role as a responsible banker, in accordance with the “Principles for Responsible Banking » and following its values, will be able to actively contribute to the changes needed for a sustainable society, in all its business lines and wherever it operates.”
Carlos Hank González, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Grupo Financiero Banorte
“Banks have to assume a true social commitment and align ourselves with people’s priorities. Signing the Principles for Responsible Banking commits us to continue contributing to the sustainable development of our country and to face together Mexico’s greatest challenges”
Ramiro Ortiz, Chairman, Grupo Promerica
“Twenty-seven years ago, when I imagined Grupo Promerica´s strategy, one of the key components was that banks should have a positive influence in the communities that we serve. By endorsing the Principles for Responsible Banking, we reaffirm this commitment and confirm that we understand our role and responsibility in society to channel financial resources towards sustainable development.”
Carina Åkerström, President and Group CEO, Handelsbanken
“As a bank with a strong belief in long-term relationships and local presence, sustainability is a natural part of how Handelsbanken is run. By signing the Principles for Responsible Banking, we show our customers, communities and investors that we will continue to work purposefully towards a sustainable, climate-stable economy throughout our decentralised bank.”
Zhang Jianhua, President, Hua Xia Bank
“The Principles for Responsible Banking will enable banks to better help develop sustainable economies and create shared prosperity for both current and future generations. As one of the Founding Signatories of the Principles for Responsible Banking, Hua Xia Bank adheres to the five development concepts of “Innovation, Coordination, Green, Openness, and Sharing”, and constantly forges the green financial brand of “Green Growth, Beautiful Hua Xia”, to promote economic, environmental and social sustainability with all our strength.”
Arif Khan, CEO & MD, IDLC Finance Limited
“A country’s economic growth is greatly backed by the finance sector, and therefore, banks should act responsibly in improving sustainability of society and environment by taking ‘a stand’ against climate change to pave a better future for next generation. Being only UNEP FI member from Bangladesh, IDLC have been proudly engaged during global consultation process for drafting the Principle for Responsible Banking. Now, we are pleased to endorse this framework to contribute in achieving the SDGs and the Paris Climate Agreement.”
Ralph Hamers, CEO, ING
“Financial institutions have a societal role that goes beyond being facilitators of well-functioning economies. They also have a moral obligation as global corporate citizens to finance positive change. The Principles for Responsible Banking provide banks with a common language and shared foundation on which to build a sustainable future. By encouraging worldwide collaboration, the Principles will support committed banks in collectively achieving sufficient scale to make the necessary impact.”
Carlo Messina, CEO, Intesa Sanpaolo
“Intesa Sanpaolo has been a member of UNEP FI and the UN Global Compact since our Group’s creation in 2007. For a Bank like ours, which has embedded sustainability in our 2018-2021 Business Plan, subscribing to the Principles for Responsible Banking is a natural next step. Our commitment is significant and includes a €5 billion circular economy fund, a plan for economic inclusion built on a €1.25 billion impact fund, and a major program to aid the neediest. We are deeply committed to cultural initiatives with our Progetto Cultura, aimed at sharing our vast artistic patrimony.”
Candido Bracher, CEO, Itaú Unibanco
“We are very proud to sign up to the Principles for Responsible Banking and to take part in this global coalition of great significance for the construction of a better and more sustainable future. Itaú Unibanco has just adopted 8 positive impact commitments based on the United Nations’ 17 SDGs. The responsibility for executing these commitments is that of our institutional and business areas, enabling us to incorporate best sustainability practices throughout the bank. Thus, our adherence to the PRB is a natural step and aligned to the way in which we operate.”
Edmond Michaan, CEO, Bank J. Safra Sarasin
“For Bank J. Safra Sarasin, sustainability is an integral part of our brand and our DNA. By signing the Principles for Responsible Banking, we renew our commitment to ensuring that sustainability is firmly embedded in every aspect of our business activities, living up to our claim: “Sustainable Swiss Private Banking since 1841”
Philipp Rickenbacher, CEO, Julius Baer
“For Julius Baer, the Principles for Responsible Banking provide a vision, they provide a lighthouse towards which we move and they provide a comprehensive framework that helps us to hardwire the ideas of sustainability and key actions into our DNA across all the businesses.”
Jong Kyoo Yoon, Chairman & CEO, KB Financial Group
“We ensure that the Principles for Responsible Banking will establish foundation to develop our sustainable society. KB Financial Group, as one of the signatory institutions listed on the Principles for Responsible Banking, we will proactively implement the principles and its details going forward and strive to expand our positive and meaningful impacts to make sustainable societies for current and future generation in the world.”
Johan Thijs, CEO, KBC Group
“I am proud to sign up on behalf of the whole KBC Group to the Principles for Responsible Banking. Sustainability is fully embedded in our business strategy, which ensures that our sustainability principles and guidelines are incorporated group-wide into all our activities and grounded in every part of the organization. In order to keep on track with the latest insights and societal expectations, we have since long developed a tradition of open and transparent sustainability communication towards all our stakeholders. Looking at the UNEP FI’s Principles, I am pleased to see that they clearly reflect the key elements of our vision on sustainability. They will undoubtedly help keep KBC on course with its ambition of making sustainable finance work.”
Joshua Oigara, CEO and MD, KCB Group
“The official launch of Principles for Responsible Banking marks a major milestone in the global banking industry of our commitment to implement Sustainable Development Goals and Paris Climate Change into our strategic objectives. In KCB Group the Principles remind us of the reason we exist as an institution and we purpose to work with our stakeholders to shape a sustainable future for the next generation.”
Adeyemi Odusanya, Ag MD/CEO, Keystone Bank
“Keystone Bank believes that business can and should be an effective steward of our planet as well as a force for good in society at the same time a generator of wealth for shareholders and stakeholders. We recognize that the success of our business, and the sustainability and survival of our planet are tightly aligned with the Principles for Responsible Banking. As industry leaders we are committed to implementing the Principles for Responsible Banking in our business and practices and to being an effective ambassador for these principles with others in our industry and beyond.”
Remy Weber, Chairman of the Executive Board, La Banque Postale
“At La Banque Postale, promoting responsible finance is our daily focus: banking services for everyone, carbon neutrality of the bank and its subsidiaries, renewable energy project financing… For La Banque Postale, committing to the “Principles for Responsible Banking” imposes itself. It means creating more value for our stakeholders, while preserving the environment”.
Xabier Egibar, CEO, LABORAL Kutxa
“LABORAL Kutxa is a credit cooperative that was set up in response to the social, economic and business needs of our environment. The cooperative values that inspire our entire management enable us to take a different approach to banking that is both honest and responsible. This is why could not be left out of this initiative that seeks to transform the current economic model into one that is more sustainable and just”.
Lilja Björk Einarsdóttir, CEO, Landsbankinn
“Landsbankinn aims to be a leader in corporate social responsibility in Iceland and we are very pleased to be amongst the first to sign up to the Principles for Responsible Banking. We have worked with local organisations on social responsibility, we are a founding member of an investment forum for responsible investments and our own policy on social responsibility is shaped with comprehensive input from business segments to ensure that it is integrated with core banking operations. We find that the Principles for Responsible Banking provide us with a common language on how a bank could be communicating these efforts and differentiate itself, which is important for our customers, employees and shareholders.”
Rainer Neske, CEO, LBBW (Landesbank Baden-Württemberg)
“Sustainability is one of LBBW’s key strategic cornerstones and is deeply rooted in our corporate DNA. Already for years, LBBW has verifiably and successfully geared its actions toward sustainability principles. Signing the Principles for Responsible Banking represents another milestone on our way to becoming one of the most sustainable universal banks in Europe. We are thus also taking on a pioneering role in promoting these principles.”
António Horta-Osório, Chief Executive, Lloyds Banking Group
“I’m very proud that we’re able to be one of the founding signatories for the UN’s Principles for Responsible Banking and be part of a responsible banking industry that is a key element of society in the modern world. Our purpose is to Help Britain Prosper and we recognise our responsibility to help address the economic, social and environmental challenges the UK faces. Our Helping Britain Prosper Plan focuses on areas where we believe we can make the biggest difference. We still have a great deal to do, but at Lloyds Banking Group we look forward to collaborating with the UN, UK Government and many other key stakeholders in this vital endeavour.”
Alain Law Min, CEO, Mauritius Commercial Bank
“At MCB, with our 181 years of existence in the small island state of Mauritius, we have always been conscious of our role and responsibilities in the development of the economy and the impact on the environment, society and communities. We are proud to be the first bank in Mauritius to become a founding signatory of the UNEPFI Principles for Responsible Banking. By joining this global community of banks, we will learn from each other by sharing experiences and expertise and aim towards excellence in this new era of sustainable development.”
Tatsufumi Sakai, President & Group CEO, Mizuho Financial Group
“As we conduct our business activities, we will be putting an increased emphasis on sustainability. Sustainable development efforts are gaining increasing importance, including in areas such as responding to climate change, respecting human rights, and adapting to a society with a declining birthrate and aging population. In light of this, there are expectations from a wide range of stakeholders that companies’ actions are considerate of the economy, society, and the environment. In other words, companies are expected to make efforts to increase the positive impacts of their business activities and decrease or avoid negative impacts. We will proactively work towards achieving the SDGs through our business activities and enhancing our medium- to long-term corporate value.”
Kanetsugu Mike, President & Group CEO, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group
“Aiming to “be the world’s most trusted financial group”, MUFG will further accelerate its ESG-oriented management and thus enhance its corporate value, contributing to the realization of sustainable growth and development of society as a whole through committed engagement with stakeholders.”
Philip Chronican, CEO and Chairman-elect, National Australia Bank
“Customers need banks to be clearer and more transparent about how products and services create value for them, as well as the communities where they live and work. The UN Principles are consistent with NAB’s determination to serve our customers better and create a culture that builds, maintains and preserves trust.”
Louis Vachon, President and CEO, National Bank of Canada
“For a long time, we’ve believed that the long-term sustained shareholder return of an institution like ours depends on our ability to maintain a healthy balance between the interests of our various stakeholders. The Principles for Responsible Banking will help us strengthen this approach and continue to play a key role in the economic and social development of the communities we serve. We’re proud to be one of the founding signatories of this initiative, which will have a positive impact on current and future generations alike.”
François Riahi, CEO, Natixis
“As a bank, asset manager and insurer, Natixis is determined to combine value creation and responsibility. Our industry has a central role to play in supporting a just transition to a more sustainable economy. I am proud Natixis is part of the PRB core group of 30 Founding Banks to scale up the contribution of the banking industry to the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on Climate.”
Frank Vang Jensen, President and Group CEO, Nordea
“By creating the Principles for Responsible Banking, Nordea and the other founding banks have accomplished a comprehensive framework for banks to collectively address the global sustainability challenges and work towards the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals. I am very proud that Nordea has been able to play such an active part in creating the principles and opportunities for a better society. Together we are on a journey towards a sustainable future.”
Timo Ritakallio, Group President and Executive Chair, OP Financial Group
“OP Financial Group recognises its responsibility in advancing sustainable development as one of the largest financiers in Finland. Our success is dependent on the success of our customers and the surrounding society. Mitigating climate change and advancing the UN Sustainable Development goals (SDG) require cooperation on many levels. Our aim is to boost collaboration in the financial services industry to advance responsible financing and contribute to the sustainable development of societies.”
Christos Megalou, CEO, Piraeus Bank
“We at Piraeus Bank are very happy to see the completion of the Principles for Responsible Banking. As a member of the Core Group we were involved from the very beginning in preparing the Principles and now we have a clearer picture of how we want to go forward on our sustainability journey. Incorporating the Principles in our policies, setting targets, contributing to the Collective Commitment to Climate Action and reporting progress on implementation is our next challenge. By being part of an international community of banks and sharing expertise it will help all of us make this sustainability journey a lot smoother.”
Tokunbo Abiru, MD/CEO, Polaris Bank
“At Polaris Bank, we understand the need to have and practice tenets, values, and principles that enable us exist and excel amidst constant market changes. We believe responsible business practices or principles is not just the right choice, it is indeed the only choice.”
Ricardo Cuesta, CEO, Produbanco Grupo Promerica
“The Financial System is a crucial catalyzer to foster real change regarding global challenges like improving people’s prosperity, fighting inequalities, tackling climate change and protecting our biodiversity. Given the need to take urgent action towards these challenges, it is a privilege for Produbanco, as a leading bank in sustainable finance in Ecuador, to join this global initiative that is closely linked to our core values and corporate strategy focused on accelerating progress towards the SDGs.”
Ross McEwan, CEO, The Royal Bank of Scotland Group
“We are pleased to become a Founding Signatory to the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking. The commitment to further align our strategy with the Paris Climate Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals will enable us to make greater impacts in priority areas such as financial capability, enterprise and the environment. I’m incredibly proud of our longstanding commitment to areas like financial education for young people, support for female entrepreneurs, and finance for renewable energy projects. However, there is always more to do and we welcome the collaborative nature of the Principles. We are committed to working closely with our stakeholders, peers and partners to make further progress.”
Nigel M. Baptiste, President and CEO, Republic Financial Holdings Limited
“Given the evolution of the Republic Bank Group over the years into the largest financial group in the Caribbean, we recognize that we have a moral responsibility that extends beyond our basic obligations to our shareholders. In this regard, we have a responsibility to play a leading part (in conjunction with all of our stakeholders) to create more sustainable communities for the benefit of both present and future generations of the Caribbean.”
Ana Botín, Executive Chairman, Santander
“Every business has a responsibility to tackle today’s global challenges. At Santander we’ve worked together to deliver profit with purpose – ensuring that our day to day operations help more people and businesses prosper in a sustainable way. We have ambitious targets for areas like financial empowerment, green finance, and gender diversity among others. And now we need to do more by collaborating, sharing best practice, and encouraging more businesses and individuals to act in a responsible way to the benefit of all.”
Johan Torgeby, President and CEO, SEB
“Global challenges need international collaboration. By committing to the Principles for Responsible Banking we join hands with other banks and take yet another step to contribute to environmental and social development while also further strengthening our own sustainability work”
Frédéric Oudéa, Chief Executive Officer, Societe Generale
“The increasingly urgent challenges of sustainable development, in particular the fight against global warming and the need for social inclusion, are our top collective priorities. As financial advisors and providers, banks have a crucial role to play to contribute to the development of low carbon and inclusive solutions and new business models. I believe that a robust international coalition and common frameworks as the Principles for Responsible Banking are the right answer to act both collectively and individually to pave the way for a sustainable future and deliver significant results that we all aim for.”
Jan Erik Kjerpeseth, CEO, Sparebanken Vest
“We must use the power of finance in the fight for climate, because without a solid contribution from the banks, the climate cannot be saved. That is why we have signed the UNEP FI Principles for Responsible banking.”
Sola David-Borha, CEO Africa Regions, Standard Bank Group
“We recognise that it takes more than putting pen to paper to make a global agreement on responsible banking a reality, but today marks a very important starting point. I am confident that we will see the banking sector stepping up to play a more proactive role in in driving growth and prosperity for generations to come.”
Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive, Standard Chartered
“We fully support the Principles for Responsible Banking, which create a single framework embedding sustainability at strategic, portfolio and transactional levels across all business areas. As we operate in markets which are among the most vulnerable to environmental and other social pressures, we have both the opportunity and responsibility to help develop a sustainable banking system — one that meets society’s goals, and where our actions and consequences are transparent and accountable.”
Erdal Erdem, General Manager, Şekerbank
“Established by hundreds of thousands of sugar beet farmers in Anatolia to enhance production-based economic development and sustainable agriculture, Şekerbank has been playing a pioneering role in financing sustainable development in Turkey with its responsible banking approach for the past 66 years. Advancing its sustainable development mission in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals, Şekerbank grouped its activities according to these goals in 2015. Now, the Bank, in accordance with its fundamental mission, has become a founding signatory of the “Principles for Responsible Banking” drafted by UN Environmental Program Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) with the intention of increasing the banking sector’s influence on the efforts made for a sustainable future. At Şekerbank, we shall continue to provide an exemplary responsible banking model aiming for social development, protecting our nature and enhancing prosperity and to increase the social and environmental benefits that we provide while fulfilling our commitments.”
Tetsuo Ohkubo, Director, President, Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings
“Addressing the issues raised by SDGs or the Paris Climate Agreement requires the coordinated efforts of various stakeholders, and sustainable finance plays a crucial role through the most appropriate allocation of funds. The Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group has focused on “Eco-Trustution”, providing solutions to environmental issues through utilizing functions as a trust bank. We will further accelerate our initiatives to address environmental issues and lead the banking industry.”
Jun Ohta, Director President and Group CEO, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group
“SMBC Group aims to “be a global financial group that leads growth in Japan and Asia by earning the highest trust of our customers”. As we fulfill this role, we will work for the sustained development of society as a whole and to raise our own corporate value by promoting ESG and SDGs-related initiatives.”
Anders Karlsson, Acting President and CEO, Swedbank
“We actively and continuously work to integrate sustainability throughout our whole business. The UN’s Principles for Responsible Banking are well aligned with the Bank’s fundamental commitment to sustainability, where we want to create long-term value for all our stakeholders and contribute to a more sustainable society”
Cho Young-byoung, CEO, Shinhan Financial Group
“To be a responsible financial group that grow and develops with society, Shinhan Financial Group has been implementing our mission of “Compassionate Finance, Your Companion for the Future”. The Principles for Responsible Banking allow us to disseminate integrated thinking that makes positive impacts on our society and environment.”
Dmitry Gusev, CEO, Sovcombank
“For Sovcombank, value creation means a delicate balance of the long-term sustainable returns to our shareholders, provision of good living for our employees, great banking services to our clients and contribution to the community and the nation. We are delighted to be the first Russian bank to join the Principles for Responsible Banking initiative. We are establishing our sustainability strategy that would support the bank’s role as important part of the country’s financial infrastructure and our ambition to help bring better future to our customers.”
Peter Blom, CEO, Triodos Bank
“We welcome the fact that so many banks have signed the Principles and recognise their role in society. It feels like a long-awaited moment that sustainability now takes centre stage within the financial sector. It is due time that banks take collective action for a better world. Not only are we in a climate emergency, there are also many global challenges to improve the lives for all. The Principles challenge banks to take a critical look at the impact of their loans and investments, and not to solely base their decisions on risk and return. We see the Principles as an important milestone to accelerate the journey of banks towards a sustainable business model, even though this journey will be difficult at times. It is time we all act now.”
Suat Ince, CEO, Industrial Development Bank of Turkey (TSKB)
“As a longstanding member of UNEP FI since 2009, TSKB is proud to become one of the Founding Signatories of the “Principles for Responsible Banking”. Since our foundation in 1950, we focus on creating long-term value for the sustainable development of our county by aligning our business model with the evolving needs of the society. Be it our lending and advisory services, we contribute directly to 14 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, and nearly 73% of TSKB’s total loan portfolio today is comprised of sustainability financing. We believe that this common framework of Responsible Banking Principles will further intensify the collective efforts in building a more sustainable future and lead us towards greater achievements by joining forces to address the current social and environmental development challenges. As we pride ourselves on being pioneer in the sustainable banking in Turkey, we are looking forward to contributing to and sharing in the expertise and experience of this global community and reinforce our dedication and commitment to sustainable development.”
Sergio P. Ermotti, CEO, UBS
“I’m pleased to have signed the Principles for Responsible Banking by the United Nations’ Environment Programme Finance Initiative, providing a clear framework for social and environmental challenges. They are part of UBS’s contribution to society, aligning banks with the UN’s Social Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate change.”
Brian Hartzer, CEO, Westpac Group
“Westpac is proud to have been a founding member of UNEP FI, UN Global Compact and Equator Principles – and now one of the founding banks of the Principles for Responsible Banking – reinforcing our commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and the UN SDGs that sit at the heart of our 2020 Sustainability Strategy. Signing up to the Principles is another way of demonstrating that we are serious about our role in shaping and financing a sustainable future and making a positive contribution to society. It’s an opportunity for us all in the banking sector to work together on the things that matter most and the things we can influence through our financing decisions.”
Gökhan ERÜN, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Yapı Kredi Bank
“In terms of sustainability, Yapı Kredi aims to be included in many global indexes and initiatives. Thus, becoming a member of the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) in 2016 was a major step for us in this journey. In 2019, a year which also marks our 75th anniversary, we expanded our contribution by becoming one of the Founding Signatories to UNEP FI Principles for Responsible Banking. By signing our name under these Principles, we once again show on a global scale our commitment to incorporate sustainability across all of our decision-making processes. As one of the pioneers and most progressive banks in the Turkish Banking sector when it comes to sustainability, we are also proud to also be one of the institutions which lead the global agenda through these Principles. I strongly believe that these Principles, which will act as a guiding framework, will accelerate the efforts in sustainability.”
Ravneet Gill, Managing Director & CEO, YES BANK
“YES BANK is proud to be a founding member and signatory of UNEP FI’s Principles for Responsible Banking. The launch of the Principles is a key step in ushering in a 21st century global financial system that is geared towards sustainable growth and development. YES BANK has always endeavoured to mainstream its ethos of Responsible Banking by driving to market a number of industry-first innovations in sustainable finance. We are confident that the Principles will accelerate this endeavour, enable the banking sector to balance its business and social objectives, and emerge as a driving force in the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and climate targets.”