We strongly advocate for the concepts of sustainability and environmental responsibility, and we are committed to integrating them into all aspects of our business, which can be summarized in the following areas:
- Anticipating climate and environmental risks through our corporate governance system and business practices.
- Public projects and initiatives focused on directly working on nature preservation, as well as raising awareness about environmental responsibility in local communities.
- Increasing the sustainability of our organization's operations.
We are increasing the sustainability of our operations.
Prepared by Muamer Sarajlić, Director of the Security and Property Management Directorate
Our Path to Sustainability: ESG Activities of the Sparkasse Bank Security and Property Management Directorate
ESG principles are becoming essential for shaping a sustainable business environment, enabling organizations to identify and respond to challenges related to environmental protection, social responsibility, and transparent governance.
For our bank, ESG principles are not just a part of our strategy—they are a responsibility. Through every aspect of our operations, we strive to contribute to improving people’s quality of life, fostering economic sustainability, and preserving the planet for future generations.
With a structured plan encompassing both short-term and long-term initiatives, the Security and Property Management Directorate of Sparkasse Bank is actively implementing measures that reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. As a socially responsible institution, our goal is to ensure that our steps toward sustainability create real and lasting value for the community and our shared future.
Throughout 2024, we have introduced a series of concrete measures that bring tangible benefits not only to our institution but also to the broader community and the environment.
Green Partnerships: Cooperation with Power Utilities
Our branches in Mostar and Žepče are currently supplied with green energy through our partnership with Elektroprivreda HZHB. In the near future, we plan to extend this practice to Elektroprivreda BiH, which is expected to happen in early 2025. Through this initiative, we reaffirm our commitment to energy sustainability, aiming to increase the share of green energy in our operations.
Waste Management: Sorting and Recycling
Waste sorting and recycling have become an essential part of our operations. We have analyzed all our locations and are actively optimizing processes while collaborating with suppliers to ensure proper waste management. At the bank’s headquarters, a recycling system has already been implemented, with waste separation bins on every floor, making it easier for employees to dispose of waste responsibly. This approach not only enhances our recycling processes but also raises awareness among employees about the importance of small actions that help preserve and sustain our environment.
Energy-efficient bank locations to reduce environmental impact
We are introducing electricity supply from renewable sources. We have installed photovoltaic systems on the roofs of our branches in Visoko and Zenica. This step is not only a demonstration of our commitment to the environment but also a concrete action that contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The photovoltaic systems allow us to use renewable energy to power our branches, thereby reducing our ecological footprint and supporting sustainable development.
Environmentally friendly mobility
We strive to actively contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving energy efficiency, and raising awareness about environmental preservation—starting with our own example.
Currently, 25% of our bank’s vehicle fleet consists of electric cars, with a clear goal and plan to gradually increase this share over time.
Sparkasse electric vehicle charging stations
In addition to the electric cars in our fleet, the bank has installed nine charging stations for electric vehicles across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Four of these chargers are located in the Sparkasse "Green" Garage at the Importanne Center in Sarajevo, while the others are available at our branches in Tuzla, Bihać, Mostar, Tešanj, and Banja Luka.
To support our clients in transitioning to cleaner and more sustainable transportation, all Sparkasse charging stations are available for bank clients to charge their electric vehicles.
Environmental Footprint
Our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint starts with small everyday actions, such as waste separation. We continuously reduce paper consumption by digitalizing work processes.
We apply sustainable marketing practices by minimizing printed materials.
Additionally, we actively promote eco-conscious practices and provide information on sustainable financial products and services.
Our goal is not only to reduce our own environmental footprint but also to inspire positive change within the community.
Nature conservation projects
Eco-friendly water site cleaning campaigns
Bosnia and Herzegovina is among the countries with the greatest potential for drinking water in Europe. We want to actively contribute to the cleanliness of this natural resource and raise awareness of its importance.
Therefore, we traditionally support water cleaning campaigns in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which we carry out with partners from sports associations. Our Sparkasse volunteers are actively involved in at least three water site cleaning campaigns per year throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thus, the energy of the Sparkasse team has so far contributed to cleaner Boračka, Modračka, Jablanica Lakes, the riverbeds of the Bosna, Drina, Željeznica, etc.
Energy efficient lighting of local communities
We have launched an action to support energy-efficient lighting in a number of local communities across BiH. In this action, Sparkasse Bank financed the replacement of ordinary public lighting fixtures in six local communities with LED lamps.
This initiative has received strong support from all local communities and city governments, confirming the importance of the project for improving the quality of life of citizens.
In addition to Sparkasse Bank providing material support to this project, it is important to highlight its strategic commitment to improving the communities in which the bank operates.
Digital mapping and marking of Trebević
With our support, an infrastructure project was implemented to digitally map and mark 44 kilometers of hiking and walking trails on Trebević. This initiative aims to provide accurate and reliable information about the trails available to visitors. By supporting this project, the Bank demonstrates its commitment to the sustainable development of local communities and the promotion of active tourism.
The impact of this project is not only improving the tourist offer, but also strengthening the local economy and promoting the natural beauty of the area. The Bank remains committed to supporting innovative initiatives that contribute to sustainable growth and development of the community.
A white pine sapling for each employee
With the growth of our bank, the green areas of BiH are also growing. Through the "Green Future Together" initiative, the bank planted a white pine sapling for each of its employees. In this way, we contributed to the fight against climate change, the creation of green areas, and the improvement of air quality in urban areas.