Thursday 27 April 2017

Triodos offers new sustainable UK bank account

Triodos has announced it is offering its first ever personal sustainable current account in the UK.

The Netherlands-based bank, which has been operating in the UK for more than 22 years, only lends money to organisations and projects that are making a positive difference to society, be it socially, environmentally or culturally.

It lends more than £700 million to organisations and projects, including renewables.

Triodos said it is launching the new green account in response to growing consumer demand for banking products “that demonstrate a positive impact on society”.

Its latest consumer survey found 61% of people want to know where their bank lends their money but three quarters of those questioned were unaware of where it actually ends up.

Customers will receive an eco-friendly chip and PIN debit card made from PLA, a “natural plastic” of renewable resources that is said to be an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastic such as PVC.

UK Managing Director Bevis Watts said: “We want people to really think about what their bank is doing with their money. Money doesn't have to be invested in the arms trade, fossil fuels and tobacco – it can be used to do good things that help build the society we want to live in.

“For many years now, consumers have had the opportunity to align their values with the food they choose to buy, the transport they take and the energy they consume. Now they have that choice with their daily finances, using their money as an irresistible force for good that works towards positive social, cultural and environmental change.”