Making a Difference: Why Sustainable Finance Is Here to Stay

Overview
Markus Ecker, Head of Sustainable Finance at Raiffeisen Bank International (RBI), highlights sustainable finance as an enduring strategic priority. RBI integrates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations across all client segments—from individuals to sovereign entities—supporting their transition to sustainable business models.

What is Sustainable Finance at RBI?

Sustainable finance at RBI means aligning banking products and strategies with environmental and social goals. This involves facilitating ESG-related transactions, issuing green bonds, employing carbon footprint calculations for clients, and implementing sector-specific ESG policies. Currently, RBI is developing a transition policy aimed at gradually reducing financed emissions by 2030. —

RBI’s Sustainable Finance Products and Solutions

• Corporate & Institutional Clients: Advisory services helping clients identify fitting sustainable financing options including green, social, and ESG KPI-linked bonds, loans, “Schuldschein” loans, and guarantees. RBI also supports clients in improving ESG performance and ratings.
• Retail Banking: RBI emphasizes climate-conscious financial health solutions like RaiCare—a tool for managing finances and predicting trends—and a carbon footprint tracker integrated into daily banking, helping clients reduce their environmental impact.

The Role of Green and Social Bonds

Green, social, and sustainability bonds are central to RBI’s product portfolio. Since launching its green bond issuance program in 2018, RBI has been a pioneer in Austria and Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The bank expanded in 2023 with a broader sustainability bond framework and became the largest green bond issuer in the CEE region by 2024. RBI also provides expert guidance to clients preparing their own sustainable bond issuances, including coordinating Austria’s first federal state sustainability bond in Lower Austria.

RBI’s Strengths in Sustainable Finance

RBI’s Sustainable Finance department unites diverse cultural and linguistic expertise, fostering innovation and effective collaboration. The ESG Ambassador Network, launched in 2019, supports knowledge sharing and consistent ESG approaches across RBI’s CEE network banks, positioning the bank as a leader in regional sustainable finance initiatives.

Future Developments in Sustainable Finance

Sustainable finance is here to stay, playing a vital role in long-term growth for clients and RBI alike. Challenges remain, notably the significant investments needed for green transition without immediate financial returns. ESG risks and sustainability performance will increasingly influence lending decisions, with transition finance especially key for high-emitting industries. Europe’s Clean Industrial Deal and similar global initiatives are expected to accelerate the demand for financing solutions that promote climate action and social impact.

Key Takeaways

• Sustainable finance integrates ESG principles into all business lines and client services.
• RBI leads green bond markets in Austria and Central and Eastern Europe.
• Innovative retail tools link personal finance management with climate action.
• Collaboration through diverse teams and ambassador networks enhances sustainable finance expertise.
• The transition to sustainability requires substantial capital but is essential for future growth.

For more expert insights and tools on ESG and sustainable finance, visit Raiffeisen Bank International’s resources and access their latest ESG scorecard.

Source: Sustainability Magazine, October 31, 2025

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