Sustainable Banking at the Rabobank

Abstract

The Rabobank Group, a large Dutch co-operative bank, is chosen as an example of sustainable business innovation in the banking sector. The selection is not based on an unambiguous assessment of the bank as the frontrunner in its industry. There is no doubt that Rabobank presents a good example of what `sustainable banking’ could be like in terms of awareness, scope of activities, and integration in its regular structures and activities. Moreover, the Rabobank represents an interesting case because of its cooperative signature and the way it deals with the heritage of its bonds with the agricultural sector. The subject of sustainable banking is not confined to environmental issues. As will be shown, the Rabobank treats social and ethical issues in a similar way.

This chapter is based on public sources and personnel communications with members of the Sustainable Development Staff Group and other departments of the Rabobanks. Two staff group members were interviewed especially for this chapter, while a concept version has been screened by them. However, the responsibility for the content of this chapter rests completely with the author.