HBL (Habib Bank Limited) reaffirms its dedication to sustainability and positive social change through its 2023 Impact Report, which reflects the bank’s commitment to addressing climate change, promoting financial inclusion, and combating poverty. Embracing the values of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), HBL believes that true impact extends far beyond charitable contributions.
With ambitious goals, HBL is targeting Net Zero emissions by 2030, having made significant strides in 2023. Notably, the bank solarized 235 of its premises, invested Rs 36 billion in renewable energy projects, and took a strong stance on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion across its operations.
A Commitment to Prosperity and Inclusivity
Sultan Ali Allana, Chairman of HBL, emphasized the bank’s commitment to long-term sustainable development: “For two decades, we have consistently seized opportunities to promote sustainable development and foster prosperity in the country. Our focus on financial literacy and inclusion remains unwavering, and we continue to leverage technology to drive innovation.”
HBL has made banking accessible to over 36 million people, many of whom were previously unbanked, through its SME, Agri, and Microfinance sectors. To further its social contributions, in 2023, the HBL Board approved an increase in the Bank’s contribution to the HBL Foundation (HBLF), raising it from 1% to 1.5% of profit after tax. This enhancement has enabled the Foundation to expand its reach in critical areas like healthcare, education, and community development.
HBL Foundation: A Force for Positive Change
In 2023, the HBL Foundation surpassed a significant milestone, contributing over Rs 3 billion to directly impact nearly 10 million lives across Pakistan. The Foundation’s funds were allocated to critical sectors, including healthcare, education, vocational training, and disaster response efforts, further demonstrating HBL’s role as a catalyst for sustainable development.
Key Achievements from HBL’s 2023 Impact & Sustainability Report
Solarization: 204 HBL branches and 31 offsite ATMs, along with 60 branches of HBL Microfinance Bank, were solarized, reducing carbon emissions by more than 500 metric tons of CO₂.
Renewable Energy Investment: Rs 36 billion invested in solar-powered tubewells and community-owned biogas plants to provide sustainable energy access to rural areas.
Education and Vocational Training: Rs 82 million invested in educational infrastructure projects, benefiting nearly 18,000 students, and Rs 1.5 billion disbursed to 600 women entrepreneurs, driving economic participation.
Empowering Farmers: Over Rs 100 billion disbursed to 345,000 farmers, boosting farm profitability and food security, with the launch of HBL Zarai Services Limited to provide agricultural extension services.
Financial Inclusion: 37 million customers served globally, including 5 million women customers, with a focus on small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and freelancers.
HBL’s comprehensive approach to sustainability and impact in 2023 underscores its alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, establishing the bank as a driving force for positive change in Pakistan and beyond.
