Welcome to our Digital Sustainability Report 2022

The Banque Cantonale de Fribourg (BCF) is publishing the second edition of its Sustainable Development Report (SDR) in 2023. It contains information on the objectives and activities of BCF from the point of view of sustainable development as well as on its ecological footprint and gives, together with the Management Report, a global picture of the financial, social and ecological dimensions of the bank’s activities.

The format of the report has changed for this new edition. At the same time, BCF has also launched a website that highlights the key points of this SDR and reinforces the transparency of the bank’s activities.

Download the Sustainability Report 2022

Sustainable development: highlights

Responsible investment

Aware of its responsibilities, BCF has increased its skills and its commitment to offer funds that take ESG criteria into account in all investment categories.

Equality

BCF offers modern and flexible working models and schedules. Positions are advertised for both part-time and full-time employees. The "Fair-ONPay+" certificate, confirmed in 2022, certifies that BCF pays equal wages for the same work, regardless of gender.

Environmental protection

BCF offsets its CO2 emissions in its own economic area through the Carbon Fri Foundation, of which it is a founding member. In this way, it contributes to environmental protection, as well as to maintaining employment in the region.

Financing energy efficiency

Since 2021, BCF has been offering the "Eco Mortgage" and "Eco Renovation Mortgage" products to encourage compliance with demanding energy standards (see p. 24). As a member of the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA), BCF is committed to applying the Guidelines for Mortgage Providers on Improving the Energy Efficiency of Buildings.

Education

In 2022, 19 apprentices and 5 trainees were employed at BCF. 450 of the 489 employees participated in the internal training program. By focusing on the ongoing training of its employees, the bank ensures a high level of competence and professionalism.

Chairmen's message

Sustainable development: an integral part of business policy

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Sustainable approach

BCF’s long-term vision

BCF has been committed to sustainable development for many years. This orientation is an integral part of the bank’s strategy. The principles of corporate governance guarantee sustainable business management.

Corporate Governance

Since its creation in 1892, the Banque Cantonale de Fribourg has been at the service of the people of Fribourg. It is proud to have contributed actively to the development of the canton. Over the years…

Sustainable products and services

BCF favors long-term partnerships.

It provides services that bring added value to its clients and to the economy. The Bank ensures long-term customer satisfaction by offering personalized and individualized service, transparent and professional advice, and understandable products presented in clear language.

BCF as an employer

BCF is one of the main employers in the canton of Fribourg, providing work for nearly 500 people. The number of employees is increasing slightly, but the turnover rate remains low. Personnel expenses amounted to CHF 70.5 million in 2022, which is higher than the previous year’s figure of CHF 62.4 million.

Social commitment

BCF is distinguished by its proximity to its clients and its regional roots. Its decision-making center is located in the canton of Fribourg. It contributes to the strengthening and development of the economy and society.

Corporate ecology and climate protection

Since 2010, BCF has been improving its environmental performance year after year. Since 2008, it has been assessing its carbon emissions, its e-banking has been climate neutral according to the ISO 14044 standard since 2011 and, since 2013, BCF has been climate neutral for all its activities, thanks to residual emissions offset by the purchase of Carbon Fri certificates.

Key figures on sustainable development

BCF has reported its data in accordance with the GRI standards for the period from 01.01.2022 to 31.12.2022 (GRI Standard 1 Foundation 2021).

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Index

The GRI index is built on the basis of the information contained in the management report and the sustainable development report, which include the main actions in which BCF is involved. In order to facilitate the search and transparency of the information, two microsites allow an easier electronic search of the information.

Download the index