NIB invites comments on its environmental policy

NIB has today published a draft version of its revised environmental policy and guidelines for public comment from stakeholders.

The policy presents the environmental principles which NIB follows in its operations. It reflects NIB’s new mission which emphasises the Bank’s role in enhancing competitiveness and the environment. NIB believes that taking environmental aspects-including ecological as well as social issues-into account is part of good business and that economic growth and a healthy environment go hand in hand.

“NIB needs a revised environmental policy to communicate NIB’s standing on environmental issues in relation to the Bank’s mission and strategy adopted in 2006, as well as to harmonise the policy with the principles of other international financial institutions. A clear and precise environmental policy will support NIB’s environmental mandate and give added value to our customers,” says Johnny Åkerholm, NIB’s President and CEO. The Bank’s current environmental policy has been in force since 2001.

“We are grateful for comments concerning the draft version of NIB’s revised environmental policy. It is important for us to keep up a dialogue with different stakeholders,” says Johan Ljungberg, Environmental Manager at NIB.

After the public consultation, conducted through NIB’s website and continuing for 60 days, the need for amendments of the policy will be assessed. The aim is that the revised policy will come into force in the beginning of 2008.

NIB is an international financial institution owned by eight member countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden. The Bank finances private and public projects in and outside the member countries.