Our sustainability ambition
We're not just green thought leaders, we actually work hand-in-hand with our clients to address some of the most pressing issues in the world today.
The world is changing. We need to support that change and make real progress possible, even if it’s not always perfect. From pioneering the first sustainability-linked loan to developing the green derivatives market, we’re creating new ways to build a more sustainable future through banking.
Terra approach
We aim to steer the most carbon-intensive parts of our portfolio towards reaching net zero by 2050. We combine a portfolio-level approach (called Terra) to the carbon-intensive sectors we’re active in with data-driven client engagement that strives to support companies in accelerating their own net-zero transitions.
Terra approach
Our own footprint
We aim to contribute to the global transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient economy. This starts at home by managing our own environmental footprint through our operations and suppliers.
Our own footprint
Financing change in the world
Sustainable business is better business. That is why we aim to use our financing, advisory products and services to actively support clients transition to new sustainable business models that will ensure their success in the future.
Financing change in the world
Our sustainability direction
With around 38 million customers in over 35 countries, our business activities have a significant influence on communities and the environment.
For us, this means making the right choices in how, where and with whom we do business – and crucially, being transparent about the underlying principles that guide our daily business decisions.
Climate actionClimate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time. As a financial institution, we can play a role by financing change, sharing knowledge and using our influence. We take a holistic approach to climate action. On the one hand, we’re taking action on how our business impacts climate change. We use our Terra approach to steer our portfolio towards global climate goals. And on the other hand, we’re considering how climate change impacts our business, as we work to assess climate risks and take action to mitigate them.
Financial healthMoney is a leading cause of stress for people everywhere. We believe financially healthy people contribute to a healthy economy and drive social progress. That’s why we’re steering our customers and communities towards improved financial health. We can make a difference by helping people to stay a step ahead of the financial challenges they face. Plus, it’s our way of contributing to the United Nations’ Opens in a new tabSustainable Development Goals, particularly towards sustainable and inclusive economic growth (goal 8) and reduced inequalities (goal 10).
Sustainability governanceThe global sustainability department helps cascade sustainability responsibilities to subject-matter experts throughout the various business units. These experts help develop our policies, programmes and targets on sustainability-related risks and opportunities, in line with our global sustainability direction. Our global head of Sustainability reports directly to our CEO, Steven van Rijswijk.
We know our stuff and our clients trust us to deliver tailored solutions to meet their needs.
We are sector experts
We are sector experts
We support your ambitions with our strong global network and superior sector expertise. No matter where you are in the world, our network of experts offer you a seamless local experience with a global view.
Our international network
Our international network
Accelerating your transition into a sustainable business isn’t easy. But then again, nothing worth doing ever is. And you have the scale and resources to make real, impactful change.
Insights: sustainable transformation
Insights: sustainable transformation