FAQs on measures being taken by the bank towards Sustainability
1. How is Canara Bank promoting sustainability?
Canara Bank’s corporate ethos is firmly committed to sustainability, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its operations. Some key initiatives include promoting green financing, supporting renewable energy projects, publishing SEBI mandated BRSR Disclosure, publishing sustainability report and implementing energy-saving measures within its branches.
2. Does Canara Bank have a policy on ESG?
Yes, As the Canara Bank strides towards the path of sustainability, it has curated an Environmental, Social, and Governance policy that highlights its dedication to an ethical and sustainable growth model. This policy serves as a roadmap for weaving considerations of environmental consciousness, social responsibility, and principled governance into the fabric of the Bank’s daily activities.
3. How does Canara Bank support green financing?
The bank finance green asset portfolio composed of both loans to and investments in corporations, assets or projects that support the transition to a clean, energy efficient, and environmentally sustainable global economy.
4. What steps is Canara Bank taking to reduce its carbon footprint?
Canara Bank has adopted several measures to reduce its carbon footprint, such as:
- Energy-efficient lighting and equipment in branches and offices
- Digital banking solutions to minimize paper use
- Green building standards for new office premises
- Reducing travel by adopting video conferencing solutions
5. Does Canara Bank have a policy on acceptance of green deposits?
Yes, Canara Bank has a dedicated Green Deposit Policy and Lending Framework for acceptance of green deposits and deployment of proceeds to green/renewable projects aligned with RBI’s Framework for acceptance of Green Deposits.
6. Is Canara Bank involved in any social sustainability initiatives?
Canara Bank participates in various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, focusing on education, healthcare, rural development, and environmental conservation. It also promotes financial literacy and inclusion, particularly in rural areas.
7. How does Canara Bank promote financial inclusion as part of its sustainability efforts?
Canara Bank has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering financial inclusion among underserved populations, particularly in regions lacking physical bank branches. Some of the initiatives are strategic deployment of business correspondent agents, opening of PMJDY accounts and enrolment under PMJJBY, PMSBY and APY.
8. What role does digital banking play in Canara Bank’s sustainability efforts?
Digitalization in Canara Bank plays a critical role in financial inclusion, making it possible to reach unbanked and underbanked populations who may not have easy access to physical Bank branches. The shift to digital transformation has facilitated paperless workflows, allowing the bank to benefit both the environment and improve staff productivity while enhancing customer satisfaction.
9. Has Canara Bank been recognized for its sustainability efforts?
Yes, Canara Bank has received various awards and accolades for its sustainable banking practices and green initiatives, including recognition for “Excellent Practices and Adoption of ESG Initiatives, at the 2nd ICC Emerging Asia Banking Conclave 2024.These recognitions highlight the bank’s commitment to ESG principles.