Our ESG strategy

2021 was a milestone year in the establishment of the ESG governance structure, which spans different organizational levels. Two ESG-related committees were established – one at the board level, another at the executive management level. The ESG Coordination Department was established in TBC Bank to support and coordinate initiatives defined by the ESG strategy. TBC Bank initiated an ESG Ambassadors programme, which aims to strengthen environmental, social and governance structures and increase the involvement of TBC employees as focal points for these areas. Through this initiative, TBC employees will contribute to the quality of sustainability for customers, company, the environment and society as a whole.

In order to expand our focus on diversity, gender and inclusion issues, we have developed a Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Policy (available at www.tbcbankgroup.com), which sets targets and establishes a methodology to advance diversity, equality and inclusion, integrating its approach into the Group’s operations and management processes and focusing on diverse areas including gender, multicultural, multigenerational and disability backgrounds. Gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls are important dimensions of the sustainability of the company and its stakeholders, including customers, employees, suppliers, partners and society as a whole. The policy takes into account the United Nations Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) – a set of principles offering guidance to businesses on how to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace, marketplace and community. TBC Bank became a signatory of the UN WEPs in 2021.

TBC strives to increase its positive impact on society and the economy through introducing new financial products and services that are designed to deliver a specific social or environmental benefit. The ESG Strategy sets targets for the growth of our total sustainable loan portfolio, including financing energy efficient, renewable energy and resource efficient projects, women-led and women-owned business, startups and rural businesses

Our responsible purchasing practices and relationships with suppliers can have a significant impact on the well-being, financial stability and development of suppliers, as well as on the economy as a whole. We pay special attention to small local suppliers and promote their inclusion in our supply chain. The ESG Strategy sets targets connected to green procurement initiatives, social enterprises, women-owned companies, startups and local business.