Doha Bank has been recognised with the ‘Environmental Award’ at the Arab Organisation for Social Responsibility awards for its efforts, including active programmes and continuing efforts to minimise its overall carbon footprint.

Nael el-Zagha, acting head, Doha Bank Dubai Branch, accepted the award on behalf of the bank at the awards ceremony, which was held in Dubai.

Doha Bank is one of the leading commercial banks in the GCC region, offering a full suite of banking services in Qatar, the UAE and Kuwait. The bank is one of the very few institutions in the region that have an active ‘green’ policy in all areas, and the bank’s corporate headquarters are LEED certified and designed to save energy while maximising ambient comfort.

Group CEO Dr R Seetharaman commended the efforts of the Arab Organisation for Social Responsibility, and said: “We believe environmental sustainability is an essential pillar to true overall growth and development and it takes the efforts of everyone to realise our common aspiration of living in a cleaner, safer and greener environment. Doha Bank is committed to this cause and will continue to work closely with advocates and action leaders to help reduce our overall impact on the environment, while trying to generate more awareness for this cause starting with educating the youth.”

The bank also maintains a well-defined environmental policy that encourages staff at all levels to reduce, reuse and recycle to minimise resource utilisation. The bank has also introduced a bespoke Green credit card, which in addition to being made of biodegradable material, also allows customers to donate to green and
environment charities.

Doha Bank also believes in encouraging sustainability at the grassroots of society and awards the distinguished Environment-Friendly Schools in Qatar and works alongside the children and educators to develop new ecologically significant class projects.

An active proponent of environmental sustainability, the bank has participated in many international summits. One of the most high profile events the bank has been part of in the past year was COP19, The United Nations Conference on Climate Change, held in Warsaw, Poland.

The bank also works alongside government authorities to promote tree planting and the cleanliness of public spaces. Recent efforts include beach clean-up campaigns in Qatar in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, as well as tree planning exercises in Dukhan Township.

Doha Bank also hosts the annual Al Dana Green Run, with the participation of its staff and the public to raise awareness regarding environmental issues.

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