Natural Capital
Natural capital refers to the natural resources that people use in
the process of economic and social development. These resources include
various elements such as soil, water, air, forests, minerals, energy
resources, and biodiversity. Natural capital is among the factors of
production used in economic activities and is an important element for
people’s survival and high level of welfare.
It is vital for economic growth, industrial production, agriculture,
energy production, and other human activities. However, it should not
be forgotten that these resources are finite and need to be managed
sustainably. Conservation and sustainable management of natural capital
help businesses reduce their environmental impact and ensure that future
generations benefit from these resources.
We work with great responsibility and dedication to understand the
importance of natural capital and to manage these resources in a
sustainable manner. Protecting, sustaining, and restoring natural capital,
which is a fundamental component of our operations, are among our primary
objectives.
As part of the environmental sustainability strategy, efforts to optimize
the use of natural resources are being increased. Continuous improvements
ensure effective and efficient management of resources used in business
processes, including water resources, energy, raw materials, and other
natural resources. To this end, various measures are taken to save
resources and reduce waste generation by using innovative technologies.
Efforts to protect and restore biodiversity and ecosystem health
are also carried out. The ecological impacts of activities are assessed,
and the principle of minimum environmental damage is applied. The Company
contributes to the sustainability of natural capital by supporting
projects for the protection of forest and marine ecosystems, habitat
restoration and biodiversity conservation.
Sustainable management of natural capital is recognized as an integral
part of business strategy. Therefore, the environmental impacts of
operations are monitored, measured, and reported. At the same time,
transparent communication and sharing on natural capital issues is
ensured through collaboration with stakeholders.
Targets
It aims to be one of the leading organizations in the sector in the field of sustainability both in 2023 and in the future, to stand by investors in line with the country’s 2053 net-zero emission targets, and to support renewable and clean energy projects.
In order to support the goals set by the United Nations within the scope of the Sustainable Development Goals, Türkiye has initiated a green development move in our country. In this context, it plays a guiding role in the financing of green transformation by continuing to work on three different areas such as Development Banking, Investment Banking, and Türkiye Development Fund. It also aims to contribute to the sustainable development of our country by actively participating in every sector of green transformation.
Considering that Türkiye is a party to the Paris Climate Agreement, the Bank aims to continue its financing support in 2023 in areas such as employment, renewable energy, and resource efficiency, especially in combating climate change. In addition, the Bank aims to increase the contribution provided by its 80 percent portfolio created in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
To provide effective support in financing green projects, the Bank aims to maintain an active role through sustainable bonds/sukuk issuances offered through direct financing or capital markets.
It is aimed to cooperate with national and international financial institutions in the transition to a net-zero economy.
5 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions were prevented in 2021 and 4.4 million tons in 2022. By 2025, it is aimed to increase the number of emissions prevented. In 2053, the Bank’s efforts continue unabated to fulfill its responsibility to reach the net zero emission target and to develop the impact investment ecosystem. In this context, the Bank is the first and only organization in Türkiye to sign the Impact Management Code of Conduct.
It is aimed to reduce Scope 1 emissions by 10% in 2025 and 40% in 2040 compared to 2020 and to calculate and report Scope 3 emissions.
By adopting the global standards of the Impact Management Code of Conduct, we aim to provide greater discipline, transparency, and measurability in activities that generate positive environmental and social impacts as well as financial returns.
With the technical assistance provided by the Credit Institute for Reconstruction (KfW), it has started to further strengthen its Environmental and Social Risk Assessment practices in line with international standards. In this framework, capacity building is still ongoing and is expected to reach a significant stage by the end of 2023.
Priority Issues
Climate Change and Environmental Impact
Investments Based on Social and Environmental Impact
Financing renewable energy and energy efficiency projects
Sustainable Themed Products/Loans