Footprint management

Global Environmental Efficiency Program

HSBC was the first major bank to go carbon neutral in 2005. In 2007, the bank launched the Global Environmental Efficiency Program, a US$90million project that takes HSBC's commitment to reducing our direct impact even further, with focus on developing flagship buildings to recognise independently certified environmental standards; footprint management and innovation; changing behaviour - through training, awareness raising, flexible working practices; and environmental management systems and processes.

Environmental targets

HSBC measures its impact in terms of energy, waste, water, carbon dioxide emissions, business travel and paper.

HSBC continually seeks to reduce its direct impact in Australia by optimising the bank's operations, including technology, purchasing and real estate. Environmental targets form part of the performance objectives for senior management across the business.

HSBC measures its impact in terms of energy, waste, water, carbon dioxide emissions, business travel and paper.

HSBC continually seeks to reduce its direct impact in Australia by optimising the bank's operations, including technology, purchasing and real estate. Environmental targets form part of the performance objectives for senior management across the business.

To assist with meeting these targets, HSBC Australia will make a number of improvements at its head office and throughout its branch network including:

• Installation of energy efficient lighting
• Upgrading plant and equipment
• Electronic solutions for paper-based processes.

HSBC's Sydney head office is expected to have a NABERS energy rating of 4.5 stars by 2011.

Supply chain

HSBC looks for suppliers who share our commitment to sustainability and stipulate environmental criteria in tenders. HSBC's 'Request for proposal' process requires confirmation of adherence to ethical and sustainable business practices from any third party supplier. Our 'Ethical Code of Conduct' for suppliers, which is reviewed on a regular basis, explains our expectations of suppliers' environmental practices and employment conditions. Prospective suppliers are asked to provide their corporate policies relating to sustainability for us to assess. Existing suppliers are expected to audit and monitor their practices to ensure compliance with our code of conduct.