Last update: 22/04/2022

It’s development that meets society’s needs without compromising future generations. To be sustainable, we must ensure a balance between economic growth, social well-being and environmental protection.

According to a report published on 9 August 2021 by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), even if greenhouse gas emissions are reduced tremendously, global temperatures will likely rise more than 1.5°C in the near future, with disastrous consequences. 

People and companies have a key role in softening the blow. Raising awareness and shifting to more sustainable behaviour will enable faster progress towards a better future for the planet and its inhabitants. 

How can I be more sustainable?

Sustainability has undoubtedly become a buzzword in recent years. However, far from being a passing fad, it’s pivotal to fighting the environmental crisis triggered by climate change. 

Behaving responsibly means taking giant strides to reduce the devastating impact on our planet and narrow the social gap with the most vulnerable. Here’s a few tips on how to be more sustainable every day: 

• Buy local produce: CO₂ emissions decrease when food travels less distance from where it’s produced to where it’s sold.  We should also choose products known to be eco-friendly or that bear ecological certification. 
• Reduce unnecessary consumption at home: Small-but-mighty acts like turning off the shower while you scrub your body and turning off the lights when you’re not in a room or if there’s good natural light. 
• Use sustainable transport: Public transport and electric cars help reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, the most beneficial options to your and the planet’s health are walking and cycling. 
• Give things new life: Reuse jars to hold pencils or donate old clothes so charities can distribute them to groups at risk of exclusion.  
• Recycle: Separate your household waste and throw it away in the right containers. 

How can public and private entities be more sustainable? 

At the UN General Assembly on 25 September 2015, several world leaders signed up to 17 sustainable development goals (the “SDGs”) that aim to reduce the devastating effects of the climate crisis. Each goal includes 15-year targets that will require public and private sector collaboration, not to mention responsible action by countries’ citizens and governments.

To help achieve them, Santander joined 131 other banks in signing up to the Principles for Responsible Banking, an historic pledge to make the world more sustainable, diverse and inclusive.