Bank Pekao has updated its Sustainable Finance Framework and plans to finance projects related to water infrastructure

Bank Pekao S.A. has updated its Sustainable Finance Framework. The document defines which categories of sustainable projects will receive funding from the bank’s bond issuances. It organizes the principles for financing and refinancing initiatives that deliver environmental and social benefits. The most significant changes include the addition of 'blue' financing, meaning projects related to water—such as improving water‑use efficiency or protecting water resources. The catalogue of eligible projects has also been expanded to include additional social categories.

The update to the Sustainable Finance Framework introduces the possibility of issuing so‑called Blue Instruments. According to the document, the proceeds from these instruments are to be allocated exclusively to financing or refinancing the ‘blue economy’.

Examples of eligible ‘blue’ financing areas include offshore renewable energy, projects aimed at reducing pollution in connection with coastal areas and river basins, solutions for water and wastewater management, as well as educational and infrastructure initiatives that support environmental awareness related to aquatic ecosystems.

The updated document also expands the scope of social financing. The bank intends to finance projects across 10 environmental and social categories. The update significantly broadens the ‘Access to Essential Services’ category to include education as well as culture, sports, and recreation, and adds a separate category—Employment Generation—focused on financing micro, small, and medium‑sized enterprises, including those run by women or located in rural areas with weaker socio‑economic indicators.

This is a continuation of the bank’s ongoing ESG efforts, reflected in Bank Pekao’s 2025–2027 strategy, of which it forms an integral part. The strategy is built on three pillars: Growth, Accessibility, and Efficiency. As part of its environmental commitments, Pekao declares, among other goals, its ambition to achieve climate neutrality for the Group by 2050, to finance green projects, and to develop products supporting clients in their transition.

More information HERE.