In an era where sustainability is no longer optional but essential, ProCredit Bank stands out as a pioneer in integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its core business strategy
Marina Mijić
Head of Sustainability Department
With over two decades of presence in Serbia, the bank has consistently demonstrated that financial success can and should go hand in hand with care for the planet and society.
ProCredit Bank’s sustainability journey began long before ESG became a global buzzword. Since 2011, the bank has implemented a comprehensive Environmental Management System (EMS), and in 2016 it became the first financial institution in Serbia to be certified under the ISO 14001:2015 standard for environmental management. This certification reflects the bank’s systematic approach to reducing resource consumption, managing waste, and monitoring greenhouse gas emissions.
The bank’s sustainability strategy is built on three pillars:
- Internal environmental responsibility: Through digitalization, low- emission vehicle fleets, and solar energy investments, the bank has significantly reduced its own direct carbon footprint.
- Responsible financing: ProCredit applies strict environmental and social risk assessments in its lending processes, refusing to finance businesses that significantly harm the environment or society.
- Green portfolio development: Investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy and environmentaly friendly measures. ProCredit bank aims to have, through investments of its clients, indirect positive impact on the environment.
Net Zero Commitment and the Net Zero Calculator
One of the most innovative tools introduced by ProCredit Bank is its Net Zero Calculator, designed specifically for SMEs. This free, user- friendly tool enables businesses to measure their carbon footprint by entering data on electricity and fuel consumption, transport, and raw materials. The results provide a sector-by-sector breakdown of emissions, helping companies identify areas for improvement and cost savings.
Sustainability is a journey best taken together
The Calculator is part of a broader Net Zero Guide, which outlines practical steps for businesses to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and align with EU regulations such as CBAM and CSRD. Importantly, no prior expertise is required – making the tool accessible to all businesses, regardless of size or industry.
ProCredit Bank complements this tool with personalized advisory services, guiding clients through the process of setting emission reduction targets, identifying financing options, and implementing sustainable technologies. This hands- on support reflects the bank’s belief that sustainability is a journey best taken together.
Why Social Responsibility Matters
At the heart of ProCredit Bank’s sustainability efforts lies a deep commitment to social responsibility- a principle that goes beyond compliance and philanthropy. For the bank, being socially responsible means actively contributing to the well- being of people, communities and future generations.
CSR at ProCredit Bank is not a side initiative- it is embedded in the bank’s culture. The bank actively supports micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), which make up 90% of its portfolio, recognizing their role as drivers of economic and social progress. Through personalized advisory services and long- term partnerships, the bank empowers clients to grow sustainably.
Social responsibility also extends to employee engagement and community support. ProCredit fosters a workplace culture of environmental awareness, ethical conduct and continuous education.
All new employees undergo a rigorous onboarding programme at the ProCredit Group level. This early exposure ensures that ESG principles are understood not just as policies, but as values that guide everyday decisions. ProCredit Bank’s ESG training is not a one- time event – it’s a continuous, structured process that begins from the moment an employee joins the organization and continues throughout their career.
ProCredit Bank believes that sustainability begins with people. That’s why ESG education is a cornerstone of its internal culture. Employees are not only trained to understand environmental and social risks, but also to actively promote sustainable practices in their daily work. The bank organizes regular workshops and advanced training modules through the ProCredit Academy. These programs cover topics such as climate change, ethical banking and responsible financing. By investing in continuous learning, ProCredit ensures that every team member becomes a proactive contributor to the bank’s sustainability mission.
Social responsibility is not just a moral obligation – it is a strategic imperative. In a world facing climate change, inequality and rapid technological shifts, businesses must act as responsible citizens. ProCredit Bank embraces this role, proving that banking can be a force for good.
Governance: The Foundation of Sustainable Banking
At ProCredit Bank Serbia, governance is not just a structural necessity – it is the backbone of the bank’s sustainability strategy. The “G” in ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) reflects how the bank is organized, how decisions are made and how ethical standards are upheld across all operations.
ProCredit Bank maintains a clearly defined governance structure, with explicitly assigned responsibilities and accountabilities. Strategic decisions, including those related to ESG objectives, are made by the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board, ensuring alignment with long-term sustainability goals.
A dedicated Sustainability Committee oversees the implementation of ESG policies and monitors progress toward defined targets. This committee plays a key role in integrating sustainability into the bank’s core business strategy.
Social responsibility is not just a moral obligation – it is a strategic imperative
To ensure a focused and strategic approach to ESG implementation, ProCredit Bank Serbia has established a dedicated Sustainability Department. This team is responsible for coordinating environmental and social initiatives, monitoring ESG performance and supporting clients in their transition to more sustainable business models. The department works closely with all departments of the bank to integrate sustainability into daily operations, lending practices and long- term planning. Its role is also crucial in aligning the bank’s activities with international standards and regulatory requirements.
ProCredit Bank Serbia publishes regular ESG reports at both the local and group level. These reports track progress on sustainability goals and provide transparency to stakeholders. The bank actively engages with clients, employees, shareholders and the wider community to foster dialogue and collaboration on ESG topics.
Looking Ahead
ProCredit Bank’s sustainability strategy is not static – it evolves with the needs of the market and the community. The bank continues to invest in renewable energy, expand its green financing portfolio and support clients in their decarbonization journeys. Through education, innovation and collaboration, ProCredit is building a resilient, fair and sustainable future for Serbia and beyond.
For businesses ready to take the first step toward sustainability, the Net Zero Calculator and Guide are available on the bank’s website. With ProCredit Bank as a partner, the path to a greener future is not only achievable – it’s strategic, cost-effective and impactful.
In the social sphere, the bank remains committed to creating long- term value for people and communities. It actively supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises, recognizing their role in driving inclusive economic growth. ProCredit also promotes financial inclusion by ensuring access to fair and transparent banking services.
These goals reflect ProCredit Bank’s belief that sustainability is not only about reducing emissions – it’s about creating lasting, positive change for people and society.
All photos: ProCredit Bank