ESR Policies

Our financing and investment policies  as well as our broader business ambitions are structured around strongly embedded social, ethical and environmental criteria. An extensive ESR policy framework is there to guide our decisions for client engagement and assessing  finance proposals. An overview of our ESR policies is available for download. Other sustainability policies can be downloaded here.

ESR screening

ING’s dedicated ESR department advises on potential environmental and social sensitivities at both the client and transaction level. Every client of ING is assessed against the requirements of the ESR Policy framework to ensure compliance before we do business. This is followed by continuous monitoring and evaluation once the business engagement is clinched. The process and governance model is explained in the image on the right.

Applying Equator Principles (EP)

ING is a strong advocate and user of the Equator Principles that guide banks in their project financing. Application of these principles requires extensive research on environmental and social risks. All projects seeking finance are assessed and the clients are made aware of potential environmental and social risks and mitigation opportunities. Only when we are convinced of the client's commitment to a requisite environmental and social standard do we commence business.

Our stance

• 13-02-2013 | Kernwapens (Dutch only)
• 17-01-2013 | Reactie ING op publicatie van IKV Pax Christi en Oxfam Novib (Dutch only)

People will entrust us with their money only when they feel we are committed to managing it well. We are aware of the increasing levels of expectations on responsible finance from customers and broader society. Towards this end, it is our attempt to maintain  optimal transparency on the origins and ultimate use of the funds entrusted to us.

The balance sheet provides an insight into the funding sources of ING Bank as well as the allocation of these funds. It also illustrates the application of the ESR framework in our commercial lending opportunities.

Global Energy Portfolio

We appreciate the  vital role that the global energy sector plays  in combating environmental challenges and catalyzing sustainable development. On our part, we strive to bridge the investment gap in the  cleaner technologies sector. We also urge governments to create (tax and legal) incentives for long-term investments in such innovations.

Sustainable products

We actively leverage our resources, skills and expertise towards addressing societal challenges such as climate change and environmental protection, education and healthcare. Our aim is to meet the growing demand for products and services that not only generate good financial returns but also facilitate the transition towards a more sustainable economy.

Inclusive Finance

ING acknowledges the importance of inclusive finance. Since 2004, we have granted loans to micro-finance institutions (MFIs) in developing countries, which then lend the money to micro-entrepreneurs. ING Vysya Bank Ltd. in India provides direct loans to such entrepreneurs and self-help groups. We serve more than 400,000 micro-entrepreneurs in the country, with a current portfolio of EUR 53 million.