KATHMANDU, JUNE 5

Apart from its core financial services, Global IME Bank, one of Nepal's leading banks, is also committed to promoting environmental sustainability and contributing for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

This year, as it marks its 18th anniversary, the bank isn't just celebrating with numbers and milestones. Instead, it's planting 18,000 trees across all seven provinces of Nepal on June 5, coinciding with World Environment Day.

The trees have already been planted in schools in Tokha Municipality, and bamboo plantations are underway in Khotang, with many more communities soon to benefit. The bank has planted 1,000 fruit saplings in various schools in Tokha Municipality. Similarly, the bank planted 1,500 bamboo plants throughout Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality.

Supporting this movement is Global IME's Green and Sustainable Banking Unit, which has been leading a wide range of eco-initiatives. To reduce waste, the bank has collected and recycled over 29.5 tonnes of paper from its branches nationwide. It has also introduced eco-friendly bags and reusable bottles, helping customers and staff move away from single-use plastics.

The bank has already installed a rainwater harvesting system at its Kamaladi Corporate Office, collecting more than 228,000 litres of rainwater each year - a big step in water conservation.

Global IME Bank is also reshaping the way banking works by investing heavily in clean energy. As of mid-April, the bank has financed hydropower projects with a total installed capacity of 1,702 megawatts, solar energy projects with 46 megawatts and rooftop solar projects with five megawatts.

Already, 41 of its branches are running on rooftop solar systems. This not only cuts down emissions but shows that clean energy can power essential services effectively.

To go digital and reduce paper use, the bank has launched Digital Universe, an online platform offering customers a full suite of digital banking services.

Every Friday, the bank also hosts a sustainability-focused SME mart at its Kamaladi office, supporting small businesses that promote eco-friendly products and practices.

Global IME has woven environmental, social, and governance (ESG) values into the fabric of how it does business. It supports companies that are building climate resilience, developing green technologies, and helping communities adapt to environmental challenges.

Green financial products have also become a big part of what the bank offers. With its Global Green Home Loan, customers can now buy or build eco-friendly homes that feature solar water heating, energy-efficient lighting, rainwater harvesting, and more - all while enjoying a special interest rate. Since the loan was launched in April 2024, over 25 per cent of the home loan portfolio now supports green homes.

Similarly, the Green Drive Scheme, which offers financing for electric vehicles, has already made a big impact. Just a year after launching, over 70 per cent of the bank's auto loans are now for EVs - helping reduce dependence on fossil fuels and cut air pollution.

To raise awareness and keep the momentum going, Global IME is preparing to launch a podcast series that will dive into topics like green finance, sustainability, and how everyday actions can lead to big environmental changes.