RBC introduces choices for environmentally-minded Canadian banking clients

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.