Go to content

Our sustainability strategy

SEB wants to be a leading catalyst in the sustainability transition. We are committed to partnering with our customers in their transition to more sustainable business models and helping society achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

As a signatory of the UN initiative Principles for Responsible Banking, we have committed to continuously adapt our business strategy to align with and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. 

SEB's sustainability strategy is a cornerstone of the bank's larger strategy for 2030. It outlines our role in the transition towards a sustainable society and provides important contexts for understanding which sustainability matters are material for SEB. The strategy’s purpose is to integrate sustainability considerations in all relevant business decisions and, by doing so, support our customers. 

Our role in the transition

On the path to becoming a leading catalyst in the sustainable transition, we focus on:

  • Providing transition advice, financing and investments
    We partner with our customers on the path to a low carbon and circular society. Through deep insights, responsible advice and capital we help them to reach their targets.
  • Innovating and setting standards
    We share our knowledge, develop innovative products and services, and engage in setting standards for how the financial industry can contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive society. 
  • Transforming our business
    Based on solid governance, we continuously develop our policies and goals and enhance our employees’ competence to ensure our credit and investment portfolios support the transition.
  • Acting as a responsible corporate citizen
    We engage in society and take an active part in positively shaping the future. In line with our long tradition, we encourage sustainable entrepreneurship and promote financial inclusion.

Ambitions and goals

As an important part of SEB's sustainability strategy, our ambitions and goals set out a path to reduce our fossil credit exposure and at the same time set growth ambitions for our sustainable products, advisory services and investments.

Our policies

Our business is governed by a set of policies and instructions. Within the Corporate Sustainability area, we abide by, among others, the Sustainability Policy, the Environmental Policy and the Human Rights Policy.

Our approach to fossil fuels

We firmly believe that there is a need for society to reduce its dependency on fossil fuel related products given their significant negative climate impact. To contribute to achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement, SEB has set targets for 2030 within its Net-Zero Banking Alliance commitment.

Sustainability governance

Strong governance is important for successful progress. We have created a robust sustainability governance model, with clear roles and mandates on different levels. This model determines how we set our strategy and work to implement it in practice.

Our commitments

SEB has adopted a number of global initiatives and international codes of conduct which guide our business decisions and the overall sustainability work. This also gives us an opportunity to learn, share knowledge and impact international policy development.

Responsible partnership

We welcome collaboration with suppliers who deliver high quality, operate responsibly, and support our long-term sustainability goals. If you are interested in becoming a supplier, we encourage you to familiarise yourself with our values and expectations as set out in the Code of Conduct for Suppliers.

Contact us

SEB's sustainability experts have extensive knowledge in areas such as climate and financing solutions, sustainable investments and regulatory development in the European Union.

 

Reach out to our sustainability contacts

Up