ANZ has introduced green guarantee facilities across several regions, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. This move aims to bolster the bank's sustainable finance capabilities by supporting customers in transitioning to lower carbon emissions through environmentally sustainable projects.
Lisa Vasic, ANZ Managing Director of Transaction Banking, stated: “We’re proud to be one of the first banks globally to offer green guarantee facilities as we look for innovative ways to support our Institutional customers and their sustainability objectives. The establishment of this new product follows the natural evolution of the sustainable finance market while also meeting the changing needs of our customers.”
The bank has implemented a green guarantee facility worth HKD117.8 million for a Vibro-led foundation project located in Hong Kong's West Kowloon Cultural District. Vibro operates as a subsidiary under NWS Holdings Limited. The facility is contingent on certain ESG criteria being met and is linked to the environmentally sustainable nature of the financed assets. One such criterion is obtaining BEAM Plus New Building (Version 2.0) certification—a recognized standard for green properties in Hong Kong.
Wallace Yeung, Vibro Director & General Manager, commented: “The Vibro-led joint venture is committed to embedding sustainability into the project, leveraging innovative solutions to enhance the overall environmental performance and wellness of staff and workers. We are glad to be partnering with ANZ on this financial innovation that supports creating shared value for the long-term sustainability development of the industry.”
Peter Chan, ANZ Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer said: “This is our first Green Guarantee for low carbon buildings, and we’re delighted to partner with Vibro on this milestone transaction which further reinforces ANZ’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Our objective was to structure a solution which supported Vibro’s sustainability agenda and Hong Kong’s strong sustainability credentials.”
As part of delivering a green building project, several environmental initiatives will be employed during construction. These include implementing Environmental, Energy and Safety Management System practices certified against ISO 14001, 50001 and 45001 standards; reducing diesel use by adopting electrification measures; and using biodiesel where practicable.