Sustainable Banking Initiative

Voluntary, sector-led action for sustainable finance

The Sustainable Banking Initiative (SBI) of the Sri Lanka Banks’ Association (SLBA) is a voluntary, sector-led platform that supports the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Launched in November 2015 following extensive dialogue within the banking sector, the SBI serves as a focal point for policy advocacy, proactive engagement, and capacity building, both within the banking sector and among broader stakeholders.

The Initiative was established upon the codification of 11 Sustainable Banking Principles. While all Sri Lankan banks endorsed the initiative at its inception, 18 formally committed to upholding the principles in 2015. Ten years later, the SBI comprises 20 signatory banks that collectively represent over 90% of Sri Lanka’s banking sector assets and continue to actively collaborate on sustainable development.

20 signatory banks representing over 90% of banking sector assets

• At launch in November 2015, 18 banks joined the SBI. Two more signed on by 2020.
• Signatory banks have pledged to uphold 11 Sustainable Banking Principles, creating a common framework for environmental, social, and governance alignment.
• The signatories represent over 90% of total banking sector assets in Sri Lanka, signalling sector-wide commitment to sustainability.

Guides, toolkits, and training resources for member banks

The SLBA SBI provides a range of practical tools and resources to help signatory banks embed sustainable finance into core operations:

• A Detailed Implementation Guide and Toolkit for integrating the Sustainable Banking Principles
• An E-Learning Platform to build employee awareness and capacity across member banks
• Local case studies to support internal trainers in demonstrating Environmental and Social Risk Management (ESRM) and Positive Impact financing with context-specific examples