Sustainability Report - Rapport de durabilité

Sustainable development: highlights

Responsible investment

As a member of the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA), BCF is committed to implementing the Guidelines for Financial Services Providers on the Integration of ESG Preferences and Risks in Investment Advice and Asset Management after the end of the current transitional period.

Equality

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

Impactful investments

BCF invests in Carbon Fri projects for up to its CO2 production volume and thus obtains the Carbon Fri label. As founding member of the Carbon Fri Foundation, BCF is committed to supporting impact efforts for the protection of the environment and thereby 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 current energy standards. 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 2023, 20 apprentices and 6 trainees were employed at BCF. All 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 integrated at the heart of our activities

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A more sustainable approach to finance

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.

A long-term vision

BCF makes an important contribution to the development of the canton of Fribourg and strengthens the economy of its business area. One out of two SMEs and one-third of the population in Fribourg have a banking relationship with BCF.

Clearly defined roles

By relying on efficient and sustainable corporate management, BCF contributes to the development of the canton of Fribourg and to the preservation of its resources. BCF’s corporate governance principles, set out in the Annual Report, focus on how the Bank is managed, administered and controlled.

Focus on sustainable products and services

BCF favors long-term partnerships. To this aim, 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.

A responsible employer

With more than 530 employees, BCF is one of the largest employers in the canton of Fribourg. The number is increasing, and the turnover rate remains low (3.6 per cent). Personnel expenses amounted to CHF 81.4 million in 2023, which is higher than the previous year’s figure of CHF 70.5 million.

A socially committed bank

BCF is distinguished by its proximity to its clients and its regional roots. It contributes to the strengthening and development of the economy and society.

Corporate ecology

Since 2003, BCF has been committed to reducing CO2 emissions and is looking year after year for measures that can have a positive and measurable impact on reducing carbon emissions.

History of ESG actions

Environmental thinking, modernizing buildings and equipment, but especially changing habits, take a long time!

ESG References

To discover the many facets of BCF, its history, its activities and its commitments.

Key figures

BCF has communicated its data in accordance with GRI standards for the period from 01.01.2023 to 31.12.2023. (GRI Standard 1 Fondation 2021).

Download the data

The GRI index

The GRI index is based on information from the management report and the sustainable development report, which include the main actions in which BCF is involved. In order to facilitate research and information transparency, two microsites have been set up to facilitate electronic searches.

Download the GRI index