WWF welcomes China's green credit guidelines
The green credit guidelines issued on Friday by the China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) provide a leading regulatory framework in green lending, says WWF, the global conservation organization. "This is a transformative development for China. The guidelines, which apply to both national and overseas credit by Chinese financial institutions, acknowledge the essential role of the banking sector in promoting a green and sustainable economy, as well as the risks presented by activities that are detrimental to the environment and local communities," said Jim Gradoville, CEO of WWF China. These guidelines place green credit strategies at the highest level, as the bank's Boards of Directors will have the responsibility to "promote green credit concepts, including resource efficiency, environmental protection and sustainable development." WWF welcomes the new requirements for effective environmental and social risk management, where "banks shall effecti...