IU Group is a collective of institutions that share a vision for a more sustainable future. In 2023, the UK-based London Institute of Banking & Finance (LIBF) became a part of IU Group, and this pivotal merger has opened new doors for LIBF to expand its commitment to sustainable practices and to promoting sustainability in its studies and research.
Environmental impact: LIBF has commissioned a detailed energy audit which scrutinised energy usage, helping the institution better understand when, where, and how energy is consumed. Consequently, the audit recommended strategies for reducing the carbon footprint and environmental impact. In the London office, the Facilities Management Team participated in a sustainability improvement programme, resulting in a remarkable 13% reduction in energy usage and an annual reduction of 55 tonnes of CO2 emissions.
Promoting good health and wellbeing: LIBF have a wellbeing commitment for their staff and a corporate culture which places employee wellbeing high on the agenda, as supported by relevant policies and programmes. Engagement activities include regular surveys and a dedicated wellbeing team who organise regular activities, which have included mental health awareness programmes and wellbeing weeks for staff where activities have included massage, mindfullness, pilates and other sessions.
Fostering gender equality: LIBF actively supports and encourages its thriving Women in Finance Student Society, fostering an environment of gender equality both within the institution and more widely in the financial services sector.
Thought leadership: sustainability and social responsibility are significant considerations for LIBF as an education body. The banking and finance sector has a critical role to play in supporting businesses and individuals to work towards social and environmental targets, through financing sustainable projects and agendas, as well as in the way they invest. To highlight best practice, LIBF has continued to produce and curate cutting-edge thought leadership on issues related to sustainability and green finance, with the aim of supporting the industry as it transitions to a more sustainable future. LIBF highlights areas for improvement as well as sheds light on which products, strategies and innovations are proving effective. In addition to whitepapers, podcasts, documentaries and reports, LIBF also provides regular articles via its website, which highlight topical issues relating to ESG and green finance.
Education programmes: LIBF ensures that sustainability remains a key consideration for its students and the next generation of banking and finance professionals. As an example, in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), LIBF has recently launched the Certificate in Sustainable Finance. By offering this certificate, LIBF is equipping financial professionals with the tools they need to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainable finance.
For more information, see here: https://www.libf.ac.uk/about-us/corporate-social-responsibility/sustainability
