Environmental sustainability

In 2019, we launched the Enectiva project, a system that compares energy consumption data with technical parameters of buildings, including building use, number of occupants, climatic conditions, etc. The software evaluates the data and determines the values that we should achieve. Based on that, we conduct detailed checks of the sites with above-limit energy demand. We are successful in continuously reducing energy consumption, which is helping us to meet our carbon neutrality commitment. We are also gradually increasing our consumption of green energy. In 2023, 98.7% of our energy consumption originated from renewable sources.

Our two office buildings in Prague-Stodůlky have received the BREEAM and LEED energy certificates, which confirm their good energy performance from a comprehensive perspective. For example, their contributions to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, their waste disposal and land management, etc.

We seek to reduce waste production wherever possible. The gradual digitalisation of all activities and the New Era of Banking contribute to a significant reduction in paper waste. You will not find disposable coffee or water cups at our headquarters, and only as an exception at branches. There is a vegan waste-free bistro with composters in the headquarters building in Prague-Stodůlky. In the canteen, employees use REkrabička boxes, which replace dozens of disposable boxes daily. In vending machines and refrigerators, we prefer drinks in metal containers. We have also started to collect coffee grounds, which are used in soaps.

We are serious about reducing plastic waste, which is why we issue new payment cards made of recycled plastic. We thus not only help to reduce carbon footprint but also contribute to waste reduction. Since 2023, we have been issuing payment cards made of 100% recycled plastic.

We are gradually expanding our vehicle fleet to include electric cars, thus contributing to a further reduction in CO₂ emissions. The latest addition to our vehicle family is ŠKODA Enyaqs, of which we have as many as 260.

The Branch of the Future

We are opening branches modelled on a new concept that supports digital, paperless communication with clients and client self-service or assisted self-service. The new concept is also accompanied by a new service model, which we are gradually rolling out in the distribution network. The way of working with clients progressively adjusts to our clients’ changing needs and habits. Clients are used to dealing with a lot of things online and the banker is increasingly becoming an advisor and financial coach. This is also reflected in the division of the branch space.

In the new branches, we also emphasise the sustainability aspects, such as lighting of the space, branch furnishings and air purification. For the floors, we use carpets made of recycled nylon, while the ceiling is covered by acoustic slats made from recycled PET bottles. At the end of 2023, there were as many as 17 branches in the new design and we continue to remodel the branch network.

Relationships with suppliers

Our supplier relationships are based on lawful, effective, fair and honest conduct. We also expect our trade partners to follow all statutory and ethical rules, including environmental protection and fight against corruption, in addition to honouring their contractual obligations. We only establish commercial relationships with suppliers who have a good reputation and pursue solely lawful activities in their business, and whose funds come from legitimate sources. By entering into a contract, suppliers declare their respect for the obligations and commitments set out in the Sustainable Sourcing Charter, the SG Code of Conduct, and the Code Respecting the Fight against Corruption and Influence Peddling. These documents are published at Suppliers.

Environmental and social commitments

We take into account respect for environmental and social principles in managing clients’ funds. Thus, we are knowingly helping to minimise the adverse impacts on the environment and society. We disclose all commitments in this area here.