GREEN BANKING AS A CATALYST FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT – EVIDENCE FROM THE BANKING SECTOR

Authors

Keywords
green banking; sustainable development; green finance; sustainable banking; climate finance; financial inclusion; banking sector; ESG; responsible banking; sustainable finance.

This article examines the role of green banking as a catalyst for sustainable development, with particular attention to the global banking sector. A mixed-methods, desk-based research design is employed. The quantitative component synthesizes secondary evidence concerning global climate-finance flows, green and sustainable bond markets, financial inclusion and the development of sustainable banking practices. The qualitative component analyses academic literature, international banking frameworks, regulatory developments and evidence from banking-sector practices. The findings indicate that green banking can contribute to sustainable development through several mutually reinforcing channels: allocation of credit to low-carbon and environmentally beneficial activities; integration of environmental and climate risks into credit decisions; development of green financial products; Digitali¬zation and operational efficiency; financial inclusion; and mobilization of private capital. The article argues that the catalytic potential of green banking is greatest when sustainability is integrated into core banking strategy, risk management, lending decisions and performance measurement rather than treated as a separate corporate social responsibility activity. Effective regulation, credible disclosure standards, blended finance, digital innovation and transparent impact measurement are therefore necessary to transform green banking commitments into measurable sustainable-development outcomes.

JEL: G21, O21
Pages: 20
Price: 2 Points

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