Preservation of the natural environment has always been a priority for SBI, which is also reflected in sustainability being one of your Bank's core values. However, the manifestation of climate-related risks and opportunities has given further impetus to your Bank’s efforts to strengthen and formalise its natural capital management.
inception
ESG Financing Framework
We have developed an ESG financing framework aligned with sustainable finance guidelines and principles. This framework serves as a guide for our future bond and loan issuance programs, ensuring that proceeds are used to finance or refinance eligible assets and projects with environmental or social benefits. It has received a Second Party Opinion that validate its robustness and adherence to policy prescriptions.
Syndicated Social Loan
We recently concluded our largest inaugural syndicated social loan, raising $1 Billion. This loan, which includes a green shoe of $500 Million, represents the largest ESG loan raised by a commercial bank in the Asia- Pacific market. The loan emphasises our commitment to supporting green and social projects.
Renewable Energy Financing
Recognising the importance of scaling up renewable energy generation, we facilitate renewable energy financing by availing lines of credit from multilateral agencies like the World Bank and KfW German Development Bank. This allows us to provide financing to renewable energy power developers.
Shri Dinesh Khara, Chairman, State Bank of India, inaugurating the PET bottle crusher at State Bank Bhavan.
Recycling and Environmental Observances
We have installed a PET bottle-crushing machine at our corporate centre to crush plastic bottles, and the resulting flakes are recycled by a vendor. Rainwater harvesting systems have been installed at 454 branches and offices across your Bank. Furthermore, your bank observes various sustainability-related days, such as World Environment Day, International Yoga Day, Earth Hour and conducts donation activities during the "Joy of Giving Week" to support marginalised sections of society.
Shri Dinesh Khara, Chairman, State Bank of India, inaugurating the EV charging station at State Bank Bhavan.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Facility
In line with government policies on electric mobility, we have partnered with Tata Power to set up EV charging facilities at various identified premises, including our corporate office, local head offices, and residential premises across the country. This initiative promotes sustainable mobility and encourages the use of electric vehicles among our employees. We also offer a Green Car Loan scheme with favourable terms for the purchase of electric cars.
Green Building and Renewable Energy Initiatives
We are committed to developing a green ecosystem. We have obtained Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) certifications for 32 of our premises, ranging from platinum to silver categories. Additionally, we are shifting the power requirements of our major establishments, including the corporate office and global IT center, to renewable energy sources. We have implemented solar rooftop installations, rainwater harvesting systems, and energy-efficient measures to reduce our carbon footprint.