In a statement, BNI noted that at least Rp 6.1 trillion (US$424.6 million) has been distributed for environmentally sound corporate business activities in the first quarter of this year, which is currently undergoing the credit agreement process.

The green banking segments receiving this line of credit distribution include the renewable energy sector, the construction of environmentally friendly buildings, as well as environmentally friendly transportation.

BNI corporate banking director Silvano Rumantir said the investment trend slowly started to improve at the beginning of this year, especially from the environmentally sound corporate debtor segment.

In addition to giving priority to debtors in carrying out sustainable business activities, the bank also foresees numerous potential projects that can support the source of BNI's credit performance growth this year.

"Green banking growth at the beginning of this year was rather good. This year, we also continue to support government policies and the Financial Services Authority [OJK] in providing green incentives to debtors who reduce carbon emissions, which can come in the form of lowering interest rates, easing loan terms or adding credit facilities for debtors in the green sector," he said.

Silvano said the company implemented a green economy approach through the bank's Sustainable Finance Action Plan (RAKB). Several steps were taken, firstly being the gradual integration of sustainable finance in the industrial sector. Secondly, the company is proactive in increasing the understanding of environmental social and governance (ESG) aspects for employees, as well as customers and debtors.

Thirdly, BNI has a consumptive program included in the Criteria for Sustainable Business Activities (KKUB) that continues to be optimized, while the fourth step is the implementation of sustainable finance in risk management to ensure the sustainable growth of the green banking business.

"Finally, BNI continues to expand credit to sectors that include and are related to green and sustainable banking,” Silvano said.

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