RBC introduces choices for environmentally-minded Canadian
banking clients
TORONTO, September 10, 2007 — RBC Royal Bank
is introducing new financial options and incentives designed
to give its environmentally-minded clients a way to bank and
help the environment at the same time.
Among the new initiatives is a "Make a statement with
your statement" campaign for clients in Canada which
aims to raise up to $1 million for the Nature Conservancy
of Canada's (NCC) wilderness protection and stewardship programs.
RBC will donate five dollars to the NCC every time an account
holder switches to more environmentally-friendly online eStatements
for either their RBC Homeline Plan, Royal Credit Line, RBC
Visa cards or Personal Banking Accounts.
"Opting for electronic statements provides a great
opportunity for our clients to make their own statement about
reducing their impact on the environment," noted Dave
McKay, executive vice-president, Personal Financial Services.
"Certainly at RBC, we still have a lot of work to do
in the area of reducing paper and it's an ongoing priority
for us. We know we can't do everything at once, but we believe
every step counts."
For home buyers and renovators, RBC is also introducing its
"Grow an Energy Efficient Home" campaign, which
is specifically designed help clients undertake environmentally-sound
home renovations. Under this program, all new RBC Homeline
Plan clients will be eligible to receive a $300 rebate towards
a home energy audit, as well as the chance to win $25,000.
They can also receive online tips and information about energy-efficient,
eco-friendly home renovations and upgrades.
The other environmentally sensitive options being introduced
by RBC Royal Bank are:
- A donation of $50 to the Nature Conservancy of Canada
for every hybrid vehicle financed through RBC Royal Bank.
- A discount of $25 for Ontario and Alberta residents who
wish to purchase clean renewable power through Bullfrog
Power.
"RBC is committed to making positive changes to protect
the environment," added McKay. "We believe the majority
of Canadians are also committed to making a difference and
we want to give them greater opportunity to do their part.
That is why we are constantly seeking ways to apply environmental
principles to our products and services and we expect to expand
on these offerings."
RBC clients who have already chosen eStatements over paper
statements have helped save approximately 20 tonnes of paper
last year alone, translating to about 220 megawatt-hours of
energy and a five-tonne reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
Since 1991 RBC has developed policies, programs and products
which recognize the balance between economic performance,
a sustainable environment and healthy communities. RBC is
considered one of Canada's most respected corporations and
leading employers, and is recognized among the world's financial,
social and environmental leaders. In 2007, RBC topped Newsweek's
first-ever ranking of global companies capable of adapting
to the risks and opportunities presented by climate change
and was named Canada's Best Corporate Citizen.
For more information on other ways RBC is working to help
the environment, visit www.rbc.com/environmentandyou.
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Media contact:
Judi Levita, Media Relations, (416) 974-8810
Raymond Chouinard, Media Relations, (416) 874-6556
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