The National Bank of Abu Dhabi, the Number One Bank in the UAE, has reduced water consumption by 43% in 2011 in all its branches and buildings in the UAE, and has achieved one of its fundamental 2011 sustainability commitments The conservation was achieved by installing water saving devices on taps, fitting devices in cisterns and raising awareness about reducing water waste. “On World Water Day 2012, the National Bank of Abu Dhabi celebrates its success in reducing our water consumption. This is a key achievement because using water wisely and reducing waste is a vital sustainability goal globally and even more so in this region," said Belinda Scott, the Senior Manager of Corporate Sustainability &Responsibility at NBAD. NBAD initially installed water-saving devices on the taps at One NBAD Tower, the Bank's Head Office; the NBAD Khalidiya Branch and Office; the NBAD Academy in Abu Dhabi; and the NBAD Etihad Branch. The Bank continued with installing the devices at all its facilities throughout the UAE. The Bank also implemented a methodical system to report water leaks and engaged internal sustainability champions to help educate staff. “Of course awareness is one of the most effective ways to realise the goals of sustainability, and special occasions such as World Water Day and Earth Hour remind us that we can all make a difference," Ms. Scott said. International World Water Day is held annually on 22 March to highlight the significance of freshwater supplies. NBAD is the first UAE Bank to publish an annual Sustainability Report and the third report for 2011 will be published online next month.NBAD, ranked one of the World's 50 Safest Banks, is positioned 6th in the S&P Hawkamah ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Pan-Arab Index, which recognises its efforts in ESG disclosures.
