As a certified B Corp and mutual savings bank, Piscataqua Savings Bank stands out not only for our exceptional financial services but also for our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. By integrating green practices into our daily operations and strategic decisions, Piscataqua Savings Bank is leading the way in demonstrating how banking institutions can play a crucial role in preserving our planet. Here’s a look at how Piscataqua Savings Bank incorporates environmental sustainability into our overall business strategy.
Location
At the heart of Piscataqua Savings Bank’s eco-friendly practices lies our singular facility. Unlike many other banking institutions with sprawling branches, Piscataqua Savings Bank’s decision to maintain one location significantly reduces our environmental footprint. The bank invests considerable effort in incorporating “green” thinking into our working environment, making sustainable choices a part of our day-to-day operations.
Initiatives for Environmental Impact Reduction
Piscataqua Savings Bank doesn’t just talk the talk; we walk the walk by implementing specific initiatives to reduce our environmental impact. These initiatives include composting food waste and using compostable silverware and paper products, thereby minimizing waste generation. Moreover, the bank avoids bottled water in favor of using actual dishes and glasses to reduce plastic consumption.
Piscataqua Savings Bank also takes significant steps to ensure energy efficiency within our facility. We purchase Renewable Energy credits, sourcing our power from wind farms in Texas. Additionally, the bank invests in Energy Star equipment such as HVAC systems, kitchen appliances, and network infrastructure. Automated sleep modes, timers, and occupancy sensors further optimize energy usage, while a reduction in paper consumption contributes to overall sustainability efforts.
Aligning Lending and Investment Practices with Sustainability Goals
Piscataqua Savings Bank extends our commitment to environmental sustainability to our lending and investment practices. We offer financing for energy efficiency improvements and green construction projects, empowering clients to make eco-conscious choices. Notably, Michael Rodier, VP/Senior Portfolio Manager, has earned the Chartered Sustainable Responsible Investment Counselor (CSRIC) designation, signifying the bank’s dedication to sustainable investments.
Promoting Renewable Energy Financing and Awareness
To encourage clients to transition to sustainable energy sources, Piscataqua Savings Bank offers a Greenline feature for our Home Equity Line Products. This feature offers reduced rates for qualifying purchases related to energy-efficient home improvements or the purchase of hybrid or electric cars.
Engaging Stakeholders and Partnerships
Piscataqua Savings Bank actively engages with stakeholders, including customers and communities, to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. The bank proudly promotes our B Corp status through various channels such as print, articles, social media, and our website. Piscataqua Savings Bank also collaborates with environmental organizations like Revision Energy to explore options for providing EV charging stations in our parking lot.
Transparency and Accountability
Piscataqua Savings Bank integrates environmental considerations into our corporate governance and decision-making processes. As part of our journey to become a B Corp, the bank amended our corporate governing documents to ensure that all stakeholders, including the environment, are considered in decision-making. This means that every decision made by Piscataqua Savings Bank is evaluated based on our impact on customers, employees, vendors, the community, and the environment. Piscataqua Savings Bank voluntarily shares social and environmental performance scorecards annually, providing transparency to our customers. Additionally, the bank offers an impact report integrated with financial reporting, empowering customers to make informed choices aligned with their values.
Looking ahead, Piscataqua Savings Bank aims to enhance our environmental sustainability efforts, furthering our commitment to green banking. Through facility optimization, eco-friendly initiatives, responsible lending and investment practices, stakeholder engagement, and commitment to transparency, Piscataqua Savings Bank demonstrates that banking and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. As Piscataqua Savings Bank continues to pave the way for green banking, we hope we inspire other financial institutions to follow suit in building a more sustainable future for all.