Standard Bank Group

Our approach to sustainability

Our comprehensive approach to sustainability is embedded in our business strategy and operations. We believe that sustainability is essential for long-term value creation and by focusing on maximising positive impact and effectively managing risk, we can build a prosperous future for Africa.

Maximising positive impact

We are committed to driving growth by providing products and services that meet Africa's development needs and contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive economy.

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Effectively managing risk

We proactively identify, assess, and mitigate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks across our operations, business relationships, and financing activities.

Our activities are guided by our obligation under various global frameworks
Frameworks

We have identified 4 SDGs to which we can make a significant contribution

Signatory to the Equator Principles

Align with the IFC Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability

Our impact areas are informed by the priorities of Agenda 2063

We commit to net zero emissions by 2050

The King Iv Code on Corporate Governance forms the cornerstone of our corporate governance principles and practices

We publish a TCFD aligned climate-related financial disclosures report (since 2021)

Liberty and Stanlib comply with the PRI

Liberty and Stanlib comply with the Principles of the second Code for Responsible Investing in South Africa (CRISA 2)

  • Frameworks

We have identified 4 SDGs to which we can make a significant contribution

Signatory to the Equator Principles

Align with the IFC Performance Standards on Environmental and Social Sustainability

Our impact areas are informed by the priorities of Agenda 2063

We commit to net zero emissions by 2050

The King Iv Code on Corporate Governance forms the cornerstone of our corporate governance principles and practices

We publish a TCFD aligned climate-related financial disclosures report (since 2021)

Liberty and Stanlib comply with the PRI

Liberty and Stanlib comply with the Principles of the second Code for Responsible Investing in South Africa (CRISA 2)

Our guiding principles
Respect for human rights

We uphold the human rights of all individuals impacted by our business activities.

Ethical conduct

We conduct our business with integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Environmental stewardship

We strive to minimize our environmental footprint and promote sustainable practices.

Social responsibility

We invest in communities and support initiatives that contribute to social development.

Client focus

We are committed to providing our clients with sustainable and responsible financial solutions.

We are maximising our positive impact in the following ways:
Sustainable finance

We are a leader in sustainable finance. We support our clients in achieving their sustainability ambitions with bespoke solutions to manage ESG risk and achieve positive impact.

Corporate social investment (CSI)

Working with partners in government and society, we continue to make considered investments in CSI programmes and initiatives.

Facilitating sustainable trade

We are playing a leading role in promoting intra-Africa trade and connecting African businesses to global markets, contributing to economic growth and job creation.

Supporting a just energy transition

We are actively financing renewable energy projects and working with our clients to support their transition to a lower-carbon economy, while ensuring a just transition that benefits all.

Empowering communities

We are investing in community development programmes that address key social challenges, such as access to education, healthcare, and financial services.

Championing arts and culture

We are supporting arts and culture initiatives that enrich lives, promote creativity, and celebrate Africa's diverse heritage.

More on sustainability
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Sustainable impact at a glance

Our impact is measured against key metrics and reported transparently to our stakeholders.

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Environmental, social and governance

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) risk management is embedded in our policies, processes, and governance structures.