To promote solutions for climate change, encourage environmentally-focussed purchases and increase awareness of environmental issues in the wider community.
There are three main drivers of our environmental initiatives:
Below are the goals we set for ourselves in the 2007/08 Corporate Responsibility Report:
Expand our use of Greenhouse Friendly Power to cover 50% of branches
The effects of the Global Financial Crisis required us to review the use of Greenhouse Friendly Power.
Review the Staff Motor Vehicle Policy to encourage behaviour change and reduce fuel use
A review of the Staff Motor Vehicle Policy was carried out and came into effect outside the reporting period.
Introduce ‘virtual meetings’ to reduce air travel
Air travel was reduced during the year by 48%.
Launch electronic statements, with a member take-up rate of 20%
eStatements were launched in February. 16% of Internet Banking users registered for eStatements (approximately 5% of total membership registered for e-statements)
Investigate ways of further reducing water consumption
Given our low water consumption, this goal was not given priority during the year.
Introduce ‘green’ home loan, insurance and financial planning products
A Green Home Loan discount was launched, along with Green Car Insurance. Our Financial Planning department offer sustainable investment options.
Delivery of compulsory sustainability training to all staff
Positive Impact Days were developed to make staff aware of sustainability issues.