We are carbon neutral!
Remarks by the Governor of Banco de la República (the Central Bank of Colombia) during the carbon neutrality certification ceremony:
“I would like to thank Bureau Veritas for being here at this event and for awarding the certifications to Banco de la República, particularly the one corresponding to the Carbon Neutral status. It is very gratifying to receive this recognition in the year in which the Bank celebrates its first centenary.
Banco de la República contributes to the responsible care of the environment by implementing measures to prevent, control, and mitigate environmental impacts generated in its different processes.
In all its facilities, industrial and cultural areas, and in its 28 Branches and Agencies, we have made progress in reducing energy consumption and optimizing the use of water, as well as in the adequate treatment and disposal of waste generated in each process.
Today, we have four environmentally friendly, energy-efficient buildings where we make the most of climate. Likewise, obsolete equipment with high energy and fuel consumption has been replaced by more efficient equipment, and solar panels have been installed in 13 of the Bank's premises, including the Central Facility for Engraving, Printing and Distribution of Cash, the Mint, and some Branches and Cultural Agencies.
Progress has also been made in the proper management of discharges and atmospheric emissions through compliance with environmental regulations and the continuous measurement of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as in the efficient use of materials and inputs by analyzing their environmental impact.
On the other hand, we have strengthened the environmental culture among employees and users of our services through cultural programs nationwide through libraries and museums, seeking the appropriation by citizens of the concept of water and biodiversity as a collective heritage to be preserved. We have also run outreach campaigns on environmental issues to raise awareness of recycling, reduction of energy and water consumption, and the contribution to reduce environmental impacts by citizens.
Banco de la República also offsets its carbon footprint by promoting the planting of native tree species in areas of ecological interest where the forest is regenerated and the country's natural ecosystems are reconstituted.
This certification is the result of the efforts of all the Bank's areas, Branches, and Cultural Agencies, which have committed themselves to the implementation of all these environmental initiatives and activities. I would especially like to acknowledge the leadership of Mr. Roberto Saavedra, Environmental Management Unit Director, in these initiatives and in coordinating the activities corresponding to each of the areas. Today's achievement motivates us to continue working to optimize our production processes by incorporating more efficient technologies in energy consumption, the rational use of non-renewable natural resources, and the strengthening of our environmental culture.”
