Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam has been named the “Best ESG Bank in Vietnam in 2022” by Asiamoney. The award recognises the Bank’s outstanding efforts in driving the application of Environmental Social and Governance in Viet Nam.

“We are committed to reaching net zero carbon emissions from our operations by 2030, and from our financing by 2050. We acknowledge the need to ensure that these objectives are achieved whilst supporting economic growth and prosperity across societies and thus achieving a just transition. We have been making an impact in Viet Nam by providing finance to where it matters most and focusing on Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) in our operations. I’m so happy that our efforts have been recognised by this prestigious accolade,” said Michele Wee, CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam.

Earlier this year, Standard Chartered Vietnam was one of the first in Viet Nam to launch Green Mortgage Loan and carbon neutral debit and credit cards. These are part of a series of green products that have been and will be launched by the bank to encourage clients to adopt a greener lifestyle and protect the environment.

In June 2022, the bank inaugurated its new head office in Capital Place Building in Ha Noi, which is a demonstration of the Bank’s sustainability commitment. The building itself is recognised with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification and the WELL Building Standard, in line with the Bank’s efforts to establish an energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, healthier workplace and its ongoing efforts to accelerate net-zero. The Bank also applies sustainable features and standards in the new head office, from the light system to the materials used for the facilities.

Standard Chartered Vietnam is also known for its support for clients and the authorities as they seek to accelerate their sustainability agenda.

In September, on the occasion of its Group CEO Bill Winters’ visit to Viet Nam, the bank signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MoNRE) on climate change response cooperation. Under the MoU, the Bank will support MoNRE with capacity building and private sector engagement in climate action and the development of green, sustainable and/or transition finance frameworks as well as carbon market development and knowledge exchange.

The bank also signed Minutes of Cooperation in gender equity between the State Bank of Viet Nam. The co-operation will include the organisation of annual conferences that offer global perspectives on women leadership and skills upgrading for women; implementation of social responsible programmes to support disadvantaged women; and sharing of Diversity and Inclusion best practices and experiences. — VNS