Our Operational Excellence
Cultivating a Sustainable Tomorrow
Karur Vysya Bank recognises the interconnectedness of environmental health and economic prosperity. We integrate responsible banking practices, prioritising the preservation of natural capital. This extends beyond finance to encompass vital ecosystems. We actively promote digitalisation to reduce our environmental impact through paperless solutions and increased efficiency. We also explore renewable energy sources to power our branches and reduce our carbon footprint, contributing to a sustainable future for all.
Resource Consumption
We emphasise optimum resource consumption as a crucial part of our daily operations. While our water and waste management needs are minimal, we actively promote digital integration and adoption across our operations. We also encourage customers to embrace digital communication channels, reducing reliance on print media. We are also introducing new metering systems to monitor and manage water usage efficiently.
Reducing paper usage
- paperless account opening through digital current accounts
- utilising e-memo application for internal communication
- enhanced automation
Responsible lending and green financing
We leverage innovative financial structures to mobilise resources for low-carbon transition opportunities, aligning with our adopted ESG policy that emphasises integrating sustainable practices.
KVB aims to minimise environmental impact through several initiatives:
Financing Green Projects: We provide access to capital for environmentally friendly initiatives that contribute to climate change mitigation, like those funded through our Green Deposits product. Launched in February 2024, Green Deposits allow customers to directly contribute to sustainable projects like renewable energy and clean transportation.
Green Manufacturing Loans: We are developing strategies to consider climate risk in lending decisions, particularly for the manufacturing sector within our portfolio.
Expanding Green Products: We are enhancing product offerings to encourage lending towards sustainable economic activities.
Carbon Footprint
KVB utilises the internationally recognised Greenhouse Gas Protocol Standards to measure our annual carbon footprint, encompassing both Scopes 1 and 2 emissions from our operations. This commitment extends beyond KVB’s internal operations, recognising the importance of client engagement in reducing their GHG footprint through the activities we finance. We acknowledge the complexities of assessing financed emissions but plan to incorporate Scope 3 emissions tracking in the future, showcasing our commitment to a net zero future.
Energy Consumption
We are aware of the critical role energy consumption plays in our environmental footprint. We are committed to a comprehensive strategy that reduces our carbon emissions and costs, thereby fostering long-term sustainability.
Investing in Energy Efficiency
Implementing energy management systems and deploying energy-efficient technologies across our branches and corporate offices
Embracing Renewable Energy
At KVB, we have set an ambitious goalachieving 100% renewable electricity usage across all KVB locations by 2030. This commitment extends beyond simply purchasing renewable energy. We actively collaborate with partners to generate and procure clean energy within the regions we operate. In 2024, we witnessed a significant increase in renewable electricity usage
- Installation of solar panels, inverters
- Installation of 38 KWP GridConnected Rooftop Solar Power Plant at Hyderabad Divisional Office
Waste Management
Recognising the environmental and operational benefits of waste reduction, KVB prioritises responsible disposal practices. We adhere to India’s e-waste management policy, ensuring proper recycling of electronic waste generated during equipment upgrades through authorised partners. Additionally, we minimise plastic usage and segregate all waste according to municipal guidelines (biodegradable and non-biodegradable) for responsible disposal. To manage wastewater effectively, we are installing a sewage treatment plant. These efforts contribute to a cleaner environment and a more sustainable future.
To the Community We Serve
Our commitment to environmental sustainability encompasses multifaceted approach. Through afforestation initiatives, we strive to expand green spaces, restore ecosystems, and combat deforestation, thereby nurturing biodiversity and mitigating climate change.
Promoting Green Cover through Mini Forest at Village Panchayats
We planted trees in two village panchayats in Karur to increase tree cover outside forest and help combat climate change while restoring natural vegetation.
Climate Strategy and Mitigation
Our long-term strategy encompassed mitigating climate risks and seizing opportunities presented by a low-carbon future. We are developing a comprehensive, long-term climate strategy with key pillars:
Building Climate Resilience
KVB instituted an ESG due diligence framework, ensuring that ESG factors are thoroughly evaluated during the credit sanctioning process and it is reviewed periodically to align with regulatory guidelines issued from time to time.
Sustainable Operations
KVB remains committed to reducing our carbon footprint, adopting industry best practices for environmental stewardship.
Collaboration and Transparency
We will engage with stakeholders, including clients, regulators, and climate experts, to accelerate the low-carbon transition. We are committed to transparent reporting and follow frameworks like the RBI’s discussion paper on Climate Risk and Sustainable Finance.
Implementation of Solar-Powered Water Pumping facility for Village Councils
Installation of Grid Tied solar photovoltaic power plants in three village panchayats to promote green power solutions for pumping water. This leads to cheaper and alternative sources of energy, ensuring uninterrupted water supply to households and helps in saving electricity cost.
Rejuvenation of Water Harvesting
Rejuvenation of traditional water harvesting structure in Konerirajapuram, aimed at harvesting and storing rain water. This will not only recharge ground water but also contribute to environmental sustainability
Multi-utility Community Forest Project
Established Multi-utility Community Forest in Idayakottai, Dindigul, spread over an area of 117 acres and envisages community forest of 6 lakh trees, thematic forest, forest interpretation centre and a hightech nursery.
