Supporting transitions

As the leading bank of the European Union and a world leader in sustainable finance, BNP Paribas clearly defines its mission in its company purpose: “We are at the service of our clients and the world we live in.”

Fostering a just transition

As the European Union’s leading bank, BNP Paribas holds the strong conviction that its expertise must directly support a more sustainable and inclusive economy. By making the expertise of its different business lines available to support the numerous transitions currently underway, the Group is taking action for finance that is more just and sustainable. At the centre of the Group’s vision are the current issues confronting people and the environment with the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals driving its actions. The objective is clear: make progress in financing a carbon neutral economy by 2050.

“We are very active on questions of sustainable finance, and by participating significantly to the financing of the ecological transition of our clients, we are supporting them as they move toward a more responsible model.”

Jean-Laurent Bonnafé

Director and Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas

€18.6bn

in financing in the renewable energy sector

2.9m

indirect beneficiaries of microcredits supported since 1989

€4bn

in financing pledged for the protection of terrestrial and marine biodiversity

“Awareness of environmental and social issues is driving the company to make a profound transformation.”

Antoine Sire

Head of Company Engagement, BNP Paribas

Supporting change

The Group works actively to support changes in the financial sector. It does this notably through large coalitions, by participating in work groups or through the creation of dedicated methodologies. The primary objective is to support clients, whether they be individuals, corporations or institutions, in their own transitions. This multifaceted approach addresses an array of subjects from energy to mobility to real estate, while also encouraging the creation and distribution of products that are more inclusive, responsible and innovative. Supporting these transitions also means financing and assisting start-ups dedicated to change. With this in mind, the Group and its nearly 190,000 employees are also adapting their ways of working: BNP Paribas has been notably carbon neutral since 2017.

“ As a global bank, our role is to direct financing towards activitives that will have a positive impact on society. BNP Paribas supports the idea of a just transition, which has the objective of reducing the negative effects of the low-carbon transition, especially as it relates to human rights. ”

Laurence Pessez

Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, BNP Paribas

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