Principles for Responsible Banking

The UN and banks from all world regions have jointly set out a vision for what a global responsible banking sector looks like. Responsible banks measure and manage the impact of their financing on people, society, the planet.

Over 350 banks – representing approximately 50% of global banking assets – are stepping up to implement the UN Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB). Recognized as leaders for accelerating sustainable banking progress, PRB signatories are well-positioned to drive innovation, create commercial value for clients, inspire sector norms, and enable real economy transition to a more sustainable future.

What is Responsible Banking?

Increasing operational resilience, ensuring institutional future-proofing, and realising commercial growth, the Principles for Responsible Banking help banks navigate risks, opportunities and impacts across four interconnected priorities — climate, nature, human rights and healthy & inclusive economies. Guiding at the level of the individual institution, as well as fostering broader systemic change, the Principles provide a sustainable banking framework that enables banks to take action and make progress towards the global and local goals for a sustainable future.

Getting Started

• Join the community: learn how your bank can take action through the Principles, and embed responsible banking at the heart of your business.
• PRB signatories: discover the list of banks who have committed to the Principles for Responsible Banking and the progress they have made so far.
• Our journey so far: learn how the community has developed since launch in 2019, including the latest bi-annual progress report on the strides PRB banks are making as sustainability leaders.
• Governance: the Principles are governed by the UNEP FI Banking Board, managed day-to-day by a secretariat, and feature a unique Civil Society Advisory Body to ensure the Principles stay relevant to society’s needs.