In the context of the 8th Convention on Co-operative banking A new deal for more solidarity, the EACB is glad to present the updated survey on “Co-operative Banks engagement to sustainable finance”, available now in its second edition. The aim of this research is to show cooperative banks’ commitment to deliver the sustainable transition and their engagement to support local economy facing the challenges related to climate change. According to the several examples provided by our members, it is clear that cooperative banks invest in sustainability policies and projects that are good for the social and environmental sphere, as the societal well-being of their communities and territories is part of their mission. Coop banks are putting in place policies and strategies to help reduce greenhouse gasses emissions produced directly and indirectly, favouring also investments able to support the transition to new energy sources and reduce the carbon footprint of buildings at the level of constructions and operations.
Appreciating the results of the survey, Bouke de Vries, Chairman of the EACB Sustainable Finance working group, has commented: “Great to see that so much is in motion. Acceleration in the real economy and in finance is needed to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal. I would like to thank the colleagues and members of the EACB Sustainable finance Working group for their efforts in producing this leaflet”.