Monday 27 April 2020

Belfius becomes ‘first carbon-neutral bank in Belgium’

Belfius has become the 'first Belgian bank' to be awarded a carbon-neutral certification label.

The bank says it has reduced its carbon footprint by 21% since 2012 and participated in a carbon-reduction programme, combined with the offsetting of its residual emissions.

It has also launched an initiative called ‘CO2 Impact Loan’, which aims to help businesses and local authorities in Belgium to become carbon-neutral by providing advice and setting specific borrowing conditions.

The new 'carbon-neutral' status was validated by Vinçotte and issued by CO2logic, a Belgian specialist advisory organisation in climate-related projects.

Jos Clijsters, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Belfius Bank and Insurance, said: "Working with CO2logic, we have identified all of our carbon dioxide emissions. These include the energy consumed by our buildings and by our staff’s journeys to and from work.

"We have also made reductions in waste and the consumption of paper, as well as having a more environmentally-friendly fleet of vehicles. We offset our residual carbon dioxide emissions directly via accredited projects that benefit the climate, both in Belgium and abroad.

"We are very proud of this recognition, but we will certainly not be resting on our laurels. As a result, Belfius intends to stop supporting certain unsustainable activities."