Environmental
sustainability

In 2019, we launched the Enectiva project, which compares energy consumption data with the technical parameters of buildings, such as building usage, number of workers, climatic conditions, etc. The software evaluates the data and as a result, we get values we should be achieving. On the basis of these evaluations, we carry out detailed inspections at locations with above-limit energy consumption. We are succeeding in continuously reducing energy consumption, which is fundamentally helping us to meet our commitment to carbon neutrality. We are also gradually increasing the abrasion of green energy.

Our two office buildings in Praha 5 - Stodůlky have energy certificates BREEAM and LEED, which confirm their low energy consumption from a comprehensive perspective. For example their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions, their impact on pollution, their waste disposal, their land management, etc.

KB office building in Stodůlky awarded LEED Gold and BREEAM certificate

We strive to reduce waste production wherever possible. The gradual digitization of all activities and the KB Klíč service contribute to a significant reduction of paper waste. You will not find disposable coffee or water cups at our headquarters, only as an exception at branches. We are opening a vegan waste-free bistro with composters in the headquarters building in Prague's Stodůlky. In the canteen, employees use REkrabičky, which replace dozens of disposable boxes daily. In vending machines and refrigerators, we prefer drinks in metal containers. We also started collecting coffee grounds, which are used to make soaps.

We are serious about reducing plastic waste, which is why we issue new payment cards made of recycled plastic. 85% recycled plastic was used to make the card. In this way, we not only help reduce the carbon footprint, but also contribute to waste reduction. In 2021 alone, we released over 20,000 of these cards.

We are gradually expanding our vehicle fleet with electric cars, thus contributing to a further reduction in CO2 emissions. The latest addition to our car family are ŠKODA Enyaq cars – 131 new vehicles will be added.

New branch concept with an emphasis on sustainability

We opened our first branch in Dejvice, Prague, according to a new concept that supports digital, paperless communication with clients and client self-service or assisted self-service. The new concept is also accompanied by a new service model, which we are gradually introducing into the distribution network. The way of working with the client adapts as the needs and habits of our clients change. Clients are used to dealing with a lot of things online and the banker is increasingly profiling himself as an advisor and financial coach. This is also reflected in the division of the branch space. 

At the Dejvice branch, we also emphasized sustainability aspects, such as lighting of the space, branch furnishings and air purification. For the floors we used a carpet made of recycled nylon, while the ceiling consists of acoustic slats made from recyclable PET bottles.

We have delved into beekeeping

We have gone even further in our considerate approach to the environment: We have installed ten beehives on the roof of KB’s office building in Stodůlky. Bees have been kept in peripheral parts of towns and cities and in monastery/convent gardens since time immemorial, and beekeeping in urban areas is nothing new. The reason is that urban areas offer a diversified mix of flowers and trees; they have a more moderate climate and, most importantly, chemicals are not used there almost at all. Honey produced in peripheral urban areas has, beekeeping experts say, a higher quality than honey from rural areas, which is also confirmed by regular laboratory tests. We also used the jars of honey produced on our roof for charitable purposes.

Relationships with suppliers

Our supplier relationships are based on lawful, effective, fair, and honest conduct. We also expect our trade partners to follow all statutory and ethical rules, including environmental protection and fight against corruption, in addition to honouring their contractual obligations. We only establish commercial relationships with suppliers who have a good reputation, who apply solely lawful practices in their business, and whose funds come from legitimate sources. By entering into a contract, suppliers declare their respect for the obligations and commitments set out in the Responsible Purchasing Charter, the Group’s Code of Conduct and the Code of Conduct against Corruption and Abuse of Public Office. These documents are published on Suppliers.

Environmental and social commitments

We take into account respect for environmental and social principles when managing client funds. Thus, we are knowingly helping to minimize the negative impacts on the environment and society. We disclose all commitments in this area here.