Shifting the financial system: accelerating sustainable finance at banks

This report examines the status of sustainable finance in the banking sector and provides recommendations to accelerate action, based on insights from banking insiders. As the climate crisis intensifies, banks play a critical role in financing low-carbon solutions. The report analyzes challenges, opportunities and best practices to align with global goals such as the Paris Agreement.

Key findings show the context for banks is becoming more complex and evolving. An ambition gap remains, with 90% of bankers saying their institutions are not doing enough to limit warming to 1.5°C. An ambitious, credible tone from the top is essential. Deeper cultural change and stronger internal support are needed, as internal actors are often seen as the main barriers. Cross-sector collaboration is vital, and banks must support ambitious policy shifts.

The report includes recommendations and tools to address this ambition gap, including a climate risk questionnaire and a guide to integration.