Emirates NBD, a leading banking group in the region, said that its Al Quds branch in Riyadh has been awarded LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system, V4 ID+C:CI Gold certification, making it the first bank branch in Saudi Arabia to get this certification.

The LEED rating system, developed by the US Green Building Council (USGBC), is the foremost programme for buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained and operated for improved environmental and human health performance.

Buildings that achieve LEED ID+C:CI certification has lower carbon emissions, create a healthier environment and reduce operating costs while prioritising sustainable practices.

According to Emirates NBD, the kingdom is one of its largest footprints outside the UAE and a key market for the banking group.

Emirates NBD also remains the first in the Mena region to secure the prestigious LEED Gold-certification for its branches, said the stateent from the bank.

Four of its branches in the UAE - Nakheel Mall, Arabian Centre, Umm Suqeim and Burj Khalifa branch - have secured the certification in the past, highlighting the banks commitment to social responsibility and sustainability in its operations, it added.

Abdulla Qassem, Group Chief Operating Officer, Emirates NBD, said: We are delighted to be the first bank in KSA to be awarded the highly reputed LEED ID+C:CI Gold certification. The bank had to meet stringent criteria to achieve this recognition reflecting our deep commitment to changing the build environment. As a responsible financial institution, we are proud to be recognised as a leader in sustainable development and remain committed to setting an example for the banking sector.

Emirates NBD has ongoing sustainability efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), UAE Vision 2030, and the Dubai Declaration for Sustainable Finance.

A pioneer in sustainability initiatives in the region, the bank has been formally reporting on its efforts through its annual Sustainability Report, first issued in 2016, he added.-TradeArabia News Service

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